Knee Pain: Baker's Cyst

If you've ever felt an uncomfortable swelling at the back of your knee, you might have encountered a Baker's Cyst. Also known as a popliteal cyst, it’s a fluid-filled sac that can cause a range of issues, from slight discomfort to significant pain. 

What is a Baker's Cyst?

A Baker's Cyst is a buildup of joint fluid (synovial fluid) that forms a cyst behind the knee. This happens when the knee produces too much synovial fluid, which then escapes and pools into a sac.

Causes of Baker's Cyst

Several conditions can lead to the formation of a Baker's cyst, including:

• Arthritis: (add hyperlink) Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis often lead to excess fluid production in the knee.

• Knee Injury: Damage to the knee, such as a torn meniscus, can result in increased fluid production.

• Inflammatory Diseases: Other inflammatory conditions affecting the knee can also contribute to a Baker's Cyst.

Symptoms to Watch For

While some people may not experience any symptoms, others might notice:

• Swelling behind the knee: This swelling may extend to the calf.

• Knee Pain: Pain can worsen with movement or activity.

• Stiffness and limited range of motion: Difficulty bending or fully extending the knee.

• A feeling of fullness behind the knee: This might feel like a balloon being inflated.

Diagnosis

If you suspect a Baker's Cyst, your friendly Relive Physiotherapist at Chester’s Best Clinic for Knee Pain can diagnose it through:

• Physical Examination: Checking for swelling and range of motion.

• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI scans to get a clearer view of the cyst and underlying issues. This is not always required if the swelling is minimal, as it resolves quickly with exercises and movement.  These tests would need to be done at a hospital or Private Clinic.

Treatment Options

Treatment for a Baker's Cyst often focuses on addressing the underlying cause:

Physiotherapy: We can use Manual Therapy techniques, such as Massage, stretching, and joint mobilisation, can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.

We also use exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee.

Once the initial pain and swelling are under control, the focus shifts to improving knee movement and function. This involves specific exercises designed to enhance strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected knee.

Physiotherapy also aims to address the underlying causes of the Baker's cyst, such as Arthritis or meniscal tears. This can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the cyst from worsening.

• Rest and Ice: Reduce impactful and strenuous activities and apply ice to minimise swelling.

• Compression and Elevation: Using compression bandages and elevating the leg can help manage swelling.

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce pain and inflammation.

• Aspiration: The cyst usually resolves on its own, however if it gets excessively swollen and painful it is best to consult a GP and drain the cyst out.

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the cyst or repair underlying knee damage.

Whatever the form, knee pain is a serious thing and the best thing that you can do is come to consult at Relive Physiotherapy.  We will be able to give you a diagnosis and then let you know the different treatment options that you have available to you.  Remember, there are many conditions that can have similar symptoms, so using Google may not always help you – you need to consult with a trained professional who will be able to let you know a firm diagnosis!