What is a Synovial Cyst of the Spine?
What is a Synovial Cyst of the Spine?A synovial cyst of the spine is a fluid-filled sac that forms between the joints of the back of the spine, called the facet joints. Also referred to as lumbar synovial cysts or facet cysts, synovial cysts of the spine are noncancerous.
The condition is considered rare and may be a sign of a degenerative disease or instability of the spine due to aging, trauma, or normal wear and tear. Common symptoms of spinal cysts may include lower back pain, muscle spasm, and decreased mobility. In very rare cases, sensory and motor changes can be present.
These cysts are not dangerous unless they are causing motor or sensory changes but can often cause painful symptoms that impair a patient’s quality of life. If that is the case, patients should seek care with a qualified physician for evaluation.
Ganglion cyst vs. synovial cyst
Ganglion and synovial cysts have different characteristics. They are both benign cysts that may result from degenerative joint diseases but vary in location.
- Ganglion cysts are mainly found in the hand and wrist joints. These are soft tissue tumors made up of collagen, a jelly-like fluid. These types of cysts do not have a synovial lining.
- Synovial cysts are often detected on the spine within the facet joints of the lower back. These are smooth lumps filled with an egg-like substance called synovial fluid.
Signs & Symptoms of Synovial Cysts on the Spine
CausesThere are several common signs and symptoms of synovial cysts on the spine, but some individuals with the condition are symptomless and do not experience any pain.
If the cyst on the spine is large or pressing directly against a nerve, it is more likely to cause pain and discomfort. Painful symptoms may increase with walking or standing, or when the spinal cord and spinal nerves are in a more compressed position.
Symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain
- Leg pain/cramping
- Leg numbness and tingling
- Leg weakness or heaviness
- Other leg problems
- Cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition caused by compressed nerves in the spinal canal.
At NewYork-Presbyterian, our doctors are specialists in synovial cyst care and can provide various treatment options to manage the condition and its symptoms.
What Causes Synovial Cysts on the Spine?
CausesSpinal synovial cysts may be caused by ongoing inflammation and wear and tear to the joints of the spine due to degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis, or an injury. With a synovial cyst on the spine, the outpouching of tissue builds up in the facet joints — the connections between the bones of the spine.
Healthy bone is protected by two connective tissues called cartilage and synovium. It is thought that when cartilage wears away, the affected joint breaks down and may produce more synovium. When this extra synovial fluid builds up in the facet joint of the spine, it may form into a synovial cyst.
Risk Factors
Risk FactorsSome factors can increase your risk of developing synovial cysts on the spine. Aging and degenerative diseases are considered the most common risk factors for this condition.
Risk factors may include:
- Being over 50
- Chronic inflammation
- Degenerative conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, or disc disease
- Sex — people assigned female at birth may have a higher risk
- Joint trauma or joint stress
Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Synovial Cyst Care
At NewYork-Presbyterian, our experienced team of spine specialists provides the highest level of care for synovial cysts on the spine. Our dedicated spine doctors work in collaboration to provide a full range of comprehensive diagnostic services and various treatment options for managing symptoms of cysts on the spine. Contact us today to make an appointment.