What is a synovial cyst?
A synovial cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can develop on your spine. While it’s not cancerous and may not cause symptoms, a synovial cyst can lead to severe nerve root compression and resulting sciatica. Treatment at Spinal Stenosis and Disc Center, Inc. can offer you relief.
What are the symptoms of synovial cysts?
Signs and symptoms you might experience with a synovial cyst include:
- Low back pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Tingling in the legs
- Problems walking or standing
Synovial cysts can cause spinal stenosis by narrowing your spinal canal. You might not experience symptoms, but if you do, they can range in severity from mild to severe.
What causes a synovial cyst?
The cause of a synovial cyst isn’t always clear. It might develop when spinal facet joints degenerate, become irritated, and produce excess fluid.
Factors that increase your risk of developing a synovial cyst include older age, arthritis, scoliosis, abnormal or excessive movements, leg length inequality, and spondylolisthesis that occurs when spinal bones slip out of proper alignment.
How are synovial cysts diagnosed?
To find out if you have a synovial cyst, Dr. Le or Dr. Morgan asks questions about your medical history and symptoms.
Dr. Le or Dr. Morgan completes a physical exam of your back and spine and might use ultrasound, MRIs, CT scans, or X-rays to detect or rule out certain medical complications.
How are synovial cysts treated?
If you have a synovial cyst and discomfort associated with it, your custom treatment plan might include:
Physical medicine
Physical medicine treatments available at Spinal Stenosis and Disc Center, Inc. include heel lifts, physiotherapy, posture modifications, spinal manipulations, rehabilitative stretches, strengthening exercises, and nonsurgical spinal decompression using revolutionary DRX 9000™ technology.
Epidural injections
Dr. Le or Dr. Morgan may recommend cortisone injections to reduce swelling, pop a cyst, or alleviate pain. Surgery is a last resort but can remove cysts and relieve pain associated with them.
Dr. Le or Dr. Morgan may make a recommendation if you’re a candidate for a surgical procedure. Surgery should always be accompanied by physical medicine to treat the cause of the synovial cyst. Read more about synovial cysts by clicking here.
Don’t live with the discomfort associated with a synovial cyst. Schedule an evaluation with the experts at Spinal Stenosis and Disc Center, Inc. by phone or online today.