People familiar with arthritis have likely seen the fluid-filled lumps that sometimes accompany them. They could have seen them on a grandparent or a parent, or maybe the person has experienced these arthritic lumps themselves; either way, it’s not hard to imagine that those lumps can be pretty painful. While we usually see them on the wrists and hands, the question is where else can they develop? Can ganglion cysts form on the jaw joint?
What Are Ganglion Cysts?
Ganglion cysts are small pockets of synovial fluid. These kinds of cysts specifically form near joints because the synovial fluid they’re made of is the substance that lubricates and cushions tendons and joints.
As stated previously, these ganglion cysts usually form on finger, hand, or wrist joints. These joints see a lot of movement and activity which can aid in the development of the cysts. As one might imagine, they can be fairly painful. Luckily, they’re also typically harmless and can even go away on their own.
Ganglion cysts are:
- About pea-sized lumps (1-3 cm)
- Potentially painful or tender
- Known to cause joint weakness if pressed
- Always occur near a joint
Cyst Development on the TMJ
The temporomandibular joint is the jaw joint that connects the temporal bone (in the skull) to the mandible (the jaw). It’s positioned directly in front of the ear and can be felt by plugging the ears and opening and closing the mouth.
While ganglion cysts don’t typically affect the jaw joint, it’s not unheard of. When the collagen tissue that protects the joint disintegrates (which usually produces the disorder temporomandibular joint disorder), these cysts can start to take shape.
People At Risk for Cysts
While ganglion cysts forming on the TMJ are considered rare, they can develop there.
A person’s risk factor for cysts on their jaw joint increases if they are:
- Middle-aged women
- Between the ages of 20-50
- Affected by TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)
Diagnosis in Fairfax, VA
People living with chronic jaw pain living in Greater Washington D.C. area can receive a diagnosis for TMD-related ganglion cysts by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Pamela Marzban. Call our offices at 703-323-8200.
