Where in Dubai
Dr. Subhash Ushakoyala, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, sees lumps and swellings of the hand and wrist at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai. Tell his nurse how long the lump has been there and whether it has changed in size. If it has been drained, scanned or removed before, bring those reports and images to the visit.
What is hand and wrist lump?
Most lumps on the hand and wrist are harmless. The most common is a ganglion cyst: a smooth, soft swelling filled with thick fluid that grows from a joint or the lining of a tendon, like a small balloon on a stalk. It often sits on the back of the wrist, but it can appear on the palm side, at the base of a finger or near the end joint of a finger. A ganglion can change size, growing with activity and shrinking with rest. Many go away without treatment. Less often, a lump is something else, such as a solid growth, which needs a closer look.
Common signs
- A smooth, soft lump on the wrist, hand or finger.
- A lump that aches, or causes tingling or weakness, when you use the hand.
- A lump that gets in the way of moving a joint or gripping.
- A lump that is hard, does not move, or keeps growing.
- A cyst that has come back after it was drained or removed.
How Dr. Subhash approaches it
Dr. Subhash lists the surgical removal of swellings and tumours among the hand problems he treats. His CV also lists the treatment of benign and malignant bone tumours. He examines the lump, checks how it moves and whether light passes through it, and arranges an ultrasound, X-ray or MRI when the cause is not clear. He explains whether to watch it, drain it or remove it.
What to expect
Consultation
He asks how long the lump has been there, whether it changes size, and how it affects your hand.
Examination
He feels the lump, checks the joints and nerves nearby, and may shine a light through it. A fluid-filled cyst lets light through.
Scans if needed
An ultrasound shows whether the lump is fluid or solid. An X-ray or MRI is used for some lumps.
Treatment plan
A cyst that causes no pain can be watched. A painful one may be drained with a needle. If it keeps causing problems, it can be removed with a small operation.
Follow-up
He checks the wound and your hand movement after any procedure, and reviews any lump that is being watched.
Getting better
Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.
- Many ganglion cysts go away by themselves, though this can take months or up to a year.
- After a cyst is removed, most people go home the same day.
- Normal activities usually return within about two to six weeks after removal.
- A cyst can come back after draining or removal, and sometimes needs treatment again.
Risks to know about
- A ganglion can return after it has been drained or removed.
- Trying to burst a cyst yourself can cause an infection or damage the skin.
When to book a visit
Book a visit for any lump on the hand or wrist that is painful, affects how you use your hand, or has been there for more than two weeks. Book sooner if a lump is hard and does not move, is growing, or has come back after removal. Go to emergency care straight away if a lump is very painful, hot and red, or you feel unwell with a high temperature.
Where to book
Dr. Subhash sees patients at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, in north-east Dubai. The clinic is at Shop No. 4, next to the Grand Excelsior Hotel.
Grand Infinity Medical Center
Shop No. 4, next to Grand Excelsior Hotel, Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
DirectionsCall +971 58 599 7460WhatsApp
Questions patients ask
Can I keep working with a ganglion on my wrist?
Usually, yes. A ganglion is not harmful. If it aches with typing, lifting or tools, easing off those tasks or wearing a wrist support can help while you wait for your visit.
Is a ganglion cyst cancer?
No. Ganglion cysts are not cancer and are usually harmless. Other lumps can look similar, so it is worth having any new or growing lump checked.
Should I hit or squeeze the cyst to burst it?
No. Hitting or squeezing it can injure your hand or cause an infection, and the cyst usually comes back.
Does a ganglion always need an operation?
No. Many need no treatment and go away by themselves. Draining with a needle or removing the cyst is considered when it is painful or affects how you use the hand.
Book an appointment
His nurse answers the phone and WhatsApp.