A cyst on shoulder can be concerning. Shoulder cysts can vary in type and size, with common types including ganglion cysts, paralabral cysts, and bone cysts, each having distinct characteristics and implications for treatment. Symptoms of shoulder cysts may include visible lumps, pain, limited range of motion, and in some cases, numbness or tingling due to nerve compression.
This article covers what a cyst on the shoulder is, common symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
What is Shoulder Cysts
Shoulder cysts, also known as synovial cysts or ganglion cysts, are fluid-filled masses that develop around the shoulder joint. These cysts can vary greatly in size and may appear as soft, fluid-filled lumps under the skin. They encompass various types, such as ganglion cysts, paralabral cysts, bone cysts, and cyst of the shoulder, each with distinct characteristics.
While some shoulder cysts may resolve naturally without treatment, others can cause significant pain, discomfort, and limited shoulder function, affecting your daily activities.
Common Types of Shoulder Cysts
There are several types of shoulder cysts, each with its own set of characteristics and implications. The most common types include ganglion cysts, paralabral cysts, and bone cysts.
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps filled with synovial fluid and can cause pain and nerve compression. Paralabral cysts form due to labral tears and can lead to shoulder pain and limited range of motion. Bone cysts are fluid-filled cavities within the bones, often asymptomatic but sometimes require treatment.
Ganglion Cysts
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled mass near a tendon or joint, often appearing as a lump on the shoulder. The exact cause of ganglion cysts remains unclear, but they are typically related to synovial fluid leakage, which accumulates in a sac-like formation. These cysts can cause discomfort and even nerve entrapment, leading to symptoms such as pain and reduced mobility.
Ganglion cysts can compress important nerves around the shoulder, resulting in pain and other symptoms, including issues related to the suprascapular nerve. They may fluctuate in size and sometimes resolve on their own, but persistent or painful cysts often require medical intervention.
Paralabral Cysts
Paralabral cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop outside the shoulder joint, typically adjacent to labral tears. These cysts are most commonly caused by a labral tear, which can lead to shoulder discomfort and reduced mobility. The presence of a paralabral cyst often indicates an underlying issue within the shoulder, such as a labral tear or shoulder instability.
Due to their proximity to the labrum, paralabral cysts can cause significant shoulder pain and limit the range of motion. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying labral tear through surgical repair.
Bone Cysts
Bone cysts are fluid-filled cavities within the bones, often asymptomatic but sometimes requiring treatment. There are two main types of bone cysts: unicameral and aneurysmal. Unicameral bone cysts are more common and typically benign. They can occur in any bone but are most frequently found in the long bones of the arms and legs.
Many bone cysts are discovered incidentally during imaging tests and may not show symptoms. However, if they grow large enough, they can cause complications such as fractures or deformities, necessitating medical intervention.
Causes of Shoulder Cysts
Shoulder cysts can develop due to a variety of reasons, often linked to joint or tendon issues. Conditions like osteoarthritis or synovitis can lead to the formation of these cysts as synovial fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues. Paralabral cysts, for instance, often develop alongside other shoulder issues, such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder instability.
Moreover, trauma or injury to the shoulder can result in cyst formation, as internal damage or soft tissue tears heal. Understanding the underlying causes of shoulder cysts is crucial for effective management and treatment.
1. Baker’s Cyst
A Baker’s cyst, commonly associated with knee joint issues, can also extend to the shoulder area. It is a fluid-filled sac that develops due to the accumulation of synovial fluid, leading to swelling and discomfort.
2. Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cysts are commonly found near joints or tendons, including the shoulder ganglion cyst and the surrounding structures. They form when joint or tendon irritation causes synovial fluid and joint fluid to leak and accumulate in a sac-like structure called ganglion cysts, which can sometimes be associated with rheumatoid nodules.
This can result in shoulder pain and restricted mobility.
3. Sebaceous Cyst
Sebaceous cysts form when hair follicles or oil glands become blocked, leading to a buildup of sebum. These epidermoid cysts can appear on the shoulder, often resembling large pimples or small lumps under the skin, and can be a form of cystic acne.
4. Lipoma
Lipomas are benign tumors composed of fat cells. They form when fat cells accumulate in a specific area, creating a soft, movable lump under the skin. Although not technically cysts, they can appear on the shoulder and may require removal if they cause discomfort.
5. Infection-Related Cyst
Infections caused by bacteria or fungi can lead to the formation of a skin abscess or cyst. These infection-related cysts are often painful and may require medical treatment to address the underlying cause and drain the cyst.
6. Trauma or Injury
Physical injury to the shoulder, such as a blow or fall, can result in cyst formation. This occurs as the body heals internal damage or soft tissue tears, sometimes leading to the development of a cyst in the affected area.
Symptoms of Cyst on Shoulder
Shoulder cysts can sometimes be asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they may include pain, tenderness, and swelling. Common symptoms of shoulder cysts also include restricted shoulder movement and functionality, particularly if they compress nearby structures.
In some cases, cysts can grow large enough to result in noticeable muscle wasting around the shoulder. Paralabral cysts, for instance, may compress vital nerves leading to muscle weakness and affect the muscles supplied. Knowing the symptoms can help in early detection and treatment.
1. Visible Lump or Swelling
A visible lump or swelling is often the most noticeable sign of a shoulder lump on the shoulder. The size of the cyst can vary, and it may grow over time. Shoulder lumps and swellings can also be a concern for some individuals.
If a growing cyst is causing concern due to an unusual cause, it is important to seek medical professionals’ advice for a proper diagnosis of human papillomavirus.
2. Pain or Tenderness
Pain or tenderness in the shoulder area is a common symptom of cysts. This pain can be due to pressure on nerves and surrounding tissues, and some cysts cause more pain than others depending on their location and size.
3. Limited Range of Motion
Cysts can affect shoulder movement, causing a limited range of motion. This restriction in mobility can be due to the pain or size of the cyst, impacting daily activities such as lifting or reaching.
4. Redness or Warmth
Inflammation around the cyst can cause redness or warmth in the affected area. These symptoms might indicate possible infection or abscess formation and require medical attention to differentiate between an infected and non-infected cyst.
5. Numbness or Tingling
Cysts can exert pressure on nerves, leading to numbness or tingling in the arm or hand. Severe cases might result in the commonest nerve affected, necessitating prompt medical intervention to prevent long-term issues.
6. Fluid Drainage (in some cases)
In some cases, a cyst may rupture or drain fluid. This can be a sign of an infected or ruptured cyst, and it is important to seek medical advice if drainage occurs to prevent further complications.
Diagnosing Shoulder Cysts
Diagnosing shoulder cysts typically involves a physical examination to assess the range of motion and strength, aiding in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pathologies. Imaging tests such as MRI are crucial for accurately detecting labral abnormalities and paralabral cysts.
Ultrasound can serve as a non-invasive method for visualizing cysts and guiding aspiration procedures. Bone cysts may often be discovered incidentally during imaging tests and require further evaluation to determine the best course of action.
Electromyography (EMG) is essential for evaluating nerve function and identifying potential nerve compression due to cysts.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Cysts
Treatment options for shoulder cysts can vary depending on the type and severity of the cyst. Non-surgical treatments include monitoring, physical therapy, and medications, while surgical treatments may be necessary for larger or more painful cysts.
Post-surgery rehabilitation is crucial for restoring shoulder strength and mobility, and consulting a shoulder specialist can enhance the recovery process.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatment options for shoulder cysts include monitoring, over-the-counter pain medications, corticosteroid injections, and aspiration. Aspiration is a procedure that involves using a needle and syringe. It is performed to drain fluid from the cyst. If a ganglion cyst does not cause pain, it may be recommended to watch the mass closely.
Physical therapy can also help in managing shoulder cysts by improving the strength and flexibility of the shoulder, reducing the likelihood of cyst recurrence.
Surgical Treatments
If the shoulder cyst is large or painful, surgical removal might be suggested. This procedure may also be considered if the cyst significantly affects shoulder function. A small incision is made to remove ganglion cysts using local or regional anesthesia.
Surgical treatment for paralabral cysts includes arthroscopic repair of the labral tear. Additionally, nerve decompression and cyst drainage are performed. Post-surgery rehabilitation is important to restore shoulder function and prevent recurrence.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Rapid growth or changes in the cyst’s appearance warrant prompt medical advice. Immediate attention is necessary if the cyst becomes red, warm, or shows signs of infection, as these could indicate an abscess or other serious issues.
Additionally, signs of acute nerve compression, such as sharp pain or loss of function, require urgent medical evaluation. Consulting a doctor is essential if the cyst causes significant pain, weakness in the shoulder muscles, or interferes with shoulder mobility and daily activities.
Wrap Up
Shoulder cysts, while often benign, can cause significant discomfort and impede daily activities. From ganglion cysts to paralabral cysts and bone cysts, each type has unique characteristics that require specific management approaches.
