Can a ganglion cyst heal on its own if massaged daily?

In general, a ganglion cyst will not resolve on its own by simply massaging it daily. The detailed explanation is as follows:

A ganglion cyst typically develops due to repeated friction, strain, or trauma to the tendon sheath. When affected by such external forces, the synovial membrane within the tendon sheath may experience an inflammatory response. This inflammation causes the synovium to secrete excessive synovial fluid, which accumulates within these cystic structures, forming a ganglion cyst.

The cyst wall of a ganglion cyst is relatively thick, and the cyst is often tightly adhered to surrounding tissues. Simple massage may not be sufficient to rupture the cyst. Therefore, even with daily massage, the cyst may persist and symptoms may not improve. Moreover, excessive rubbing might irritate the surrounding tissues, worsening the inflammatory response and potentially causing symptoms such as pain and swelling.

In daily life, if a ganglion cyst is detected, self-treatment through aggressive massage is not recommended, as it may exacerbate the condition and hinder recovery. Patients should also avoid strenuous physical activity to prevent worsening of symptoms. Ensuring adequate sleep is beneficial for disease recovery. Even after successful treatment and disappearance of the cyst, patients should schedule regular follow-up appointments at the hospital to promptly detect and manage any recurrence.