Does hitting a ganglion cyst with a heavy book make it better? Physician Dr Kunal Sood explains

Dr Kunal Sood warns against hitting a ganglion cyst with a heavy book, as it can rupture and spread fluid into surrounding tissue, with risks of fractures, nerve injuries, tendon damage, and bruising.

A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled lump that commonly develops along tendons or joints of wrists, hands, ankles, or feet, often painless and may disappear on its own.

Hitting a cyst may make it temporarily disappear, but the outer lining often remains, causing the cyst to recur.

If the cyst is not painful, it is often safe to observe it; if painful or limiting movement, consult a healthcare professional for options like aspiration or surgery.

Not every lump on the wrist is a ganglion cyst, so misidentification increases risks with DIY treatment.