Effect of structured naturopathic treatment on pain and size reduction in a ganglion cyst: A case study

Background: Ganglion cysts are common benign soft tissue swellings of the hand and wrist arising from joint capsules or tendon sheaths. They may cause pain, localized swelling, cosmetic concerns, and restricted joint movement. Non-invasive treatment approaches are increasingly being explored as alternatives to surgical management. Naturopathic hydrotherapy techniques, including thermotherapy and contrast applications, may enhance local circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing. Objective: To evaluate the effect of a structured naturopathic hydrotherapy intervention on ganglion cyst size and pain intensity in a patient with a wrist ganglion cyst. Methods: A single-case study was conducted using a 15 days naturopathic treatment protocol comprising warm oil application, infrared radiation (IRR), hot compress, and immediate cold affusion. The intervention protocol was implemented every day for a duration of 20 minutes. Outcome measures included cyst dimensions (length × width × depth), calculated cyst volume (cm³), and pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). We collected daily measurements throughout the intervention to monitor ongoing structural and symptomatic changes. Results: Progressive reduction in cyst size was observed over the 15-day treatment period. Initial cyst dimensions of 2.2 × 1.8 × 1.5 cm decreased to 1.2 × 0.8 × 0.6 cm. Correspondingly, cyst volume decreased from 3.08 cm³ at baseline to 0.29 cm³ following treatment, representing an overall reduction of approximately 90.6%. Pain scores fluctuated during the intervention but demonstrated an overall trend toward symptomatic improvement. Conclusion: Structured naturopathic hydrotherapy was associated with substantial reduction in ganglion cyst volume and improvement in pain symptoms. Further controlled studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are warranted to validate these preliminary findings.