How to reduce synovial cysts

Posted by gfbarch @gfbarch, Jan 28 4:27pm

With the onset of PMR I developed a number of synovial cysts--many being on my hands. They are quite painful. Any recommendations for reducing their size?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.

seniormed | @seniormed | Jan 28 7:37pm

I’m not sure if synovial cysts are related to PMR.
I think there is an occurrence of synovial inflammation
with RA. Have they been tested with ultrasound or diagnosed by your rheumatologist? Ganglion cysts are more common. If they are fluid filled they may be aspirated.

DadCue | @dadcue | Jan 29 8:54am

There is more and more evidence that PMR is synovitis that mostly is in the hips and shoulders. While PMR is associated with GCA which is a vasculitis there doesn't seem to be that much evidence that PMR alone is a vasculitis.

I believe synovitis in the hands might make the diagnosis of PMR less likely but not impossible. Anything pertaining to PMR seems to be possible because it overlaps with many other health conditions. It is difficult to say what causes what.

https://creakyjoints.org/education/what-is-synovitis/

Synovial cysts are well known in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Someone with RA like @pb50 might know what to suggest.

I have a synovial cyst on my lumbar spine that causes problems for me. Surgery on my lumbar spine is said to be my best option but pain will be the "deciding factor."

gfbarch | @gfbarch | Jan 29 3:21pm

In reply to @dadcue "There is more and more evidence that PMR is synovitis that mostly is in the hips..." + (show)

Thank you for the info

gfbarch | @gfbarch | Jan 29 4:03pm

In reply to @seniormed "I’m not sure if synovial cysts are related to PMR. I think there is an occurrence..." + (show)

My rheumatologist said they were synovial cyssts. Aspiration was attempted with no success. The are quite painful when I move my hands...sharp, hot poker pain