Table of contents:
- Definition
- What is a Baker's cyst (Baker's cyst)?
- How common are Baker's cysts?
- Symptoms
- What are the features and symptoms of a Baker's cyst?
- When to see a doctor?
- Cause
- What causes Baker's cyst?
- Triggers
- Who is at risk for Baker's cyst?
- Diagnosis
- How is a Baker's cyst diagnosed?
- Treatment
- How to treat Baker's cyst?
- Home remedies
- What can be done to treat Baker's cyst?
Definition
What is a Baker's cyst (Baker's cyst)?
Baker's cysts are fluid-filled cysts that develop on the knee, causing a painful lump. The pain may worsen when the knee is used to move.
Baker's cysts, also called popliteal cysts, are usually the result of a problem with the knee joint, such as arthritis or tearing of the cartilage. Both of these conditions can cause the knee to produce too much fluid, resulting in a baker cyst. Addressing the root cause will usually relieve pain.
How common are Baker's cysts?
This condition is very common at any age. Generally attacks women compared to men. Baker's cyst can be treated by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.
Symptoms
What are the features and symptoms of a Baker's cyst?
In some cases, a Baker's cyst is painless, so you may not even notice.
If you experience signs and symptoms, these can include:
- Swelling behind the knees, and sometimes in the legs
- Pain in the legs
- Stiffness and unable to flex the knee completely
Symptoms may worsen when you are active or standing for long periods of time.
There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.
When to see a doctor?
You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Pain and swelling behind the knee
- A lump behind the knee, which can be a sign of a more serious condition than a fluid-filled cyst
If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.
Cause
What causes Baker's cyst?
It should be noted beforehand, that there is a lubricating fluid called synovial fluid whose function is to help the foot swing smoothly and reduce friction between the moving parts of the foot.
However, sometimes the knee produces too much synovial fluid, causing a build-up in the area behind the knee (popliteal bursa), causing a Baker's cyst. This can happen because:
- Inflammation of the knee joint, as occurs in many types of arthritis
- Knee injuries, such as tearing of cartilage
Triggers
Who is at risk for Baker's cyst?
You're more at risk of a Baker's cyst if you have:
- Arthritis of the knee joint
- Meniscus tear injury
- Injury to the knee joint
Diagnosis
How is a Baker's cyst diagnosed?
A Baker's cyst can often be diagnosed with a physical exam. However, because some of the symptoms of a Baker's cyst resemble more serious conditions, such as blood clots, aneurysms or tumors, doctors may perform non-invasive imaging tests, such as X-rays of the feet, ultrasound, and CT scans, to show more detailed images of the knee joint.
Many clinical conditions have similar symptoms. The doctor may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to get a definite diagnosis.
Treatment
The information below cannot be used as a substitute for a medical consultation. ALWAYS consult your doctor for information about medications.
How to treat Baker's cyst?
Sometimes a Baker's cyst will go away on its own. However, if the cyst is large and causing pain, your doctor may recommend the following treatments:
Drugs. Your doctor can inject a corticosteroid medication, such as cortisone, into the knee to reduce inflammation. This can relieve pain, but does not always prevent the cyst from returning.
Fluid drainage. The doctor can remove fluid from the knee joint using a needle. This is called needle aspiration and is often performed under ultrasonic guidance.
Physical therapy. Cold compresses and crutches can help reduce pain and swelling. Slow movements and muscle strengthening exercises around the knee can also help reduce symptoms and maintain knee function.
Cysts associated with osteoarthritis will usually improve with arthritis treatment, so surgery is rarely needed.
Home remedies
What can be done to treat Baker's cyst?
Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you treat a Baker's cyst:
Follow the principles of R.I.C.E. which consists of Rest (rest), Ice (ice cubes), Compression (compress) and Elevation (lift legs). Rest your feet. Compress the knee with a bandage. Wrap your foot with a bandage or a supporting cast. Raise your legs as much as possible, especially at night.
Take pain relievers. Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, acetaminophen, or aspirin can help relieve pain. Follow the dosage directions on the package. Do not use more than the recommended dosage.
Reduce physical activity. This can reduce irritation to the knee joint. Your doctor can provide guidance on how long you need to limit activity, and your doctor can provide alternative exercises that you can do in the meantime.
If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
