The synovial cyst is one of those benign swellings that frequently appear among the general population. It is then a ball filled with viscous liquid which forms at the level of a joint or a tendon. In the most serious cases, a puncture or an ablation is envisaged. However, synovial cysts are often asymptomatic and resolve naturally. Moreover, there are natural solutions to treat a synovial cyst more quickly and relieve pain if necessary. Discover all the natural remedies to get rid of this non-cancerous tumor and avoid the operation.
Summary
What is a synovial cyst?
A synovial cyst is a non-cancerous subcutaneous tumour. It is present in the form of a pocket filled with liquid developing at the level of a joint or a tendon, which present synovial liquid in small quantities.
Excessive synovial fluid secretion can occur after unusual actions (carrying heavy loads, for example) that strain the tendons and joints more than usual. The overflow of liquid then forms a kind of ball called a cyst.
The synovial cyst can appear on the top or inside the wrist. When it concerns a joint, it is an arthro-synovial cyst. It can also be found in the joints of the fingers. In this case, we speak of mucoid cysts. Some people may have deformed nails. Finally, the tenosynovial cyst is located on the trajectory of a tendon.
Know that all of these synovial cysts are frequent and affect the entire population without distinction, men and women, young people as well as the elderly.
The causes
Generally, the synovial cyst is idiopathic, that is to say of unknown cause. It can also appear following a trauma such as a sprain or rupture of a ligament. In this case, we speak of a post-traumatic cyst. Note that it is more painful than the others.
To find out the origin of the cyst, you can perform examinations (ultrasound, X-ray, MRI). This is also preferable to avoid the risk of recurrence.
On the other hand, there are risk factors. Indeed, the synovial cyst remains frequent when the subject suffers from osteoarthritis, an inflammatory disease (rheumatoid arthritis, etc.) or trauma to the hand or wrist.
Symptoms
The synovial cyst does not present specific symptoms, except the presence of a ball at the level of a joint or a tendon.
Its presence can cause discomfort for some people. And pain can also manifest itself in flare-ups.
Natural treatments for synovial cyst
A cyst must be monitored but it does not necessarily have to be treated. After the outbreak, the tumor may stabilize, evolve and then resorb on its own.
The puncture remains possible but doctors generally advise against it because there is a risk of infection. And the solution is not always up to the expected result. Crushing the cyst is also discouraged due to the increased risk of recurrence.
Finally, an ablation of the synovial cyst by surgical intervention is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. The patient keeps the joint immobilized for two weeks. However, this does not eliminate the risk of recurrence (about 10% of cases).
Note that beyond these rather radical solutions, there is a whole range of natural remedies to soothe the pain and get rid of this tumor under the skin.
Wearing a splint
In case of moderate pain and discomfort, it is useless to intervene. Just watch the cyst to see its evolution.
However, you can wear a splint to rest your wrist.
Immobilization and rest
Synovial cysts can occur when a joint or tendon is stressed too often. Therefore, it is recommended to immobilize the affected body part. This enforced rest allows the tumor to shrink in size.
Arnica
To reduce pain, arnica is the ideal natural solution. You can use the remedy orally (arnica montana 9 CH) or applied locally to the affected area.
A poultice of green clay
During the night, place a poultice of green clay on the joint or the tendon which makes you suffer. This will reduce the pain.
To make a poultice, simply coat the part of the body concerned with green clay. Then, cover the whole thing with cling film.
Cold
Place an ice pack previously covered with a clean cloth on your synovial cyst. This will help soothe swelling if any.
homeopathy
To treat a synovial cyst in the wrist, you can use a first-line homeopathic treatment:
- sticta pulmonaria 4 CH, 3 pellets 3 times a day, supported by silicea 15 CH (one dose per week);
- calcarea carbonica 15 CH.
Seek advice from a homeopath who will be able to guide you towards the most suitable treatment for your ailment.
Physiotherapy
Physical therapy sessions can help reduce symptoms related to a synovial cyst. The physiotherapist will use ultrasound in particular.
black tea
Black tea has properties that prevent the progression of pain and promote healing. The product also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Boil some water and immerse a black tea bag in it for five minutes. Then take out the tea bag. After squeezing it, apply it on the cyst for about ten minutes.
Repeat the operation several times a day until improvement.
The aloe vera
We no longer present aloe vera. This natural product has many health benefits. On cysts, this remedy can be an effective solution. It actually reduces pain and swelling. It also speeds up healing.
For this, use fresh aloe vera leaves purchased in organic stores. Cut a piece of the sheet and put the gel bare to apply it directly on the ball for about twenty minutes.
Then wash the area with warm water. And repeat the operation several times a day if necessary, over a period of 3 to 5 days.
frankincense oil
This active astringent is effective in slowing down the development of synovial cysts. Apply a few drops of frankincense oil to the tumor and then cover it with a clean bandage.
Repeat daily, making sure to use a clean bandage daily. Stop only when you see improvement. Know that with this remedy, the cyst can disappear completely.
Tea tree essential oil
This essential oil has many health benefits. In case of cyst, you can absolutely use it because it is an excellent anti-inflammatory.
Rub the affected area twice a day with tea tree essential oil.
