A synovial cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms as a result of joint degeneration. When they form in the spinal region, they can put pressure on key structures and nerve roots, leading to a host of symptoms and related conditions like spinal stenosis. Treatment focuses on removing the cyst and taking care of the joint so that there is a reduced likelihood that another cyst forms. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at the symptoms and treatment options for spinal synovial cysts.
Causes And Symptoms Of Synovial Cysts
As we mentioned in the introduction, synovial cysts develop due to spinal degeneration, which means it’s not really an issue that is seen in younger patients. Most cases involve patients over the age of 45, but the prime age for spinal cyst related issues is in adults 65 and above. Synovial fluid helps to lubricate a joint so that it can move normally, but as a result of natural degeneration, this fluid can end up pooling into fluid-filled sacs in or around the joint. These sacs end up taking up critical space and irritating nearby structures.
We know that synovial cysts are caused by spinal degeneration, but there are some underlying causes that can lead to this degeneration. Natural wear and tear on your body over decades of stress is one common contributing factor, but so too are things like repetitive motions or acute injury. If you performed the same motions frequently at your job for many years or you fell and injured your back a few years ago, you may have more spinal joint degeneration, which can increase your risk for cyst formation.
Symptoms of synovial cyst formation will depend on the size of the cyst, where in the spinal column it is located and which areas it is irritating. With that said, some of the most common symptoms associated with spinal synovial cyst formation include:
- Pain (typically in the lower back)
- Pain that travels down an arm or down through the hips, buttocks and legs
- Discomfort when walking that is partially or fully relieved when sitting
- Muscle weakness
- Tingling or numbness
- Leg cramping
Diagnosing And Treating Spinal Synovial Cysts
If you are experiencing some of the above symptoms and want to get to the bottom of your spine discomfort, sync up with your primary care physician or a spine specialist in your area. They’ll begin by conducting a physical exam and by asking about your symptoms. Synovial cysts are best diagnosed using imaging techniques, and they are most clearly seen on an MRI. That said, an X-ray may be ordered to rule out other issues or to assess the stability of the spine.
Treatment will depend on symptom severity, but the first step of treatment usually involves conservative techniques. Some cysts will resolve on their own, so all you may need is to make a few tweaks to your daily life. Improving your posture, avoiding certain strenuous activities, taking anti-inflammatory medications and giving your body ample rest between physical activities can oftentimes lead to symptom reduction or alleviation.
If conservative care doesn’t work, your spine specialist may recommend some more hands-on care. A spinal injection can help to calm inflammation around a synovial cyst and reduce symptoms, or an injection can be used to manually drain the cyst. For others, a minimally invasive surgery may be recommended. The most common surgical technique involves removing the cyst and then fusing the joint. This fusion limits movement at that spinal joint, and without movement and stress, the cyst should not return. A full recovery typically takes 6-9 months following joint fusion, but most patients find relief before surgery.
For more information about spinal synovial cysts, or to consult with a spine specialist about a different back issue you are dealing with, reach out to Dr. Jackman and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.
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