BAKER’S CYST

COMMON TERMS

baker’s cyst, bakers cyst

TECHNICAL TERMS

popliteal synovial cyst, popliteal cyst

WHAT IT IS

A fluid-filled, non-cancerous lump that develops behind the knee, causing tightness, stiffness, and swelling. It is not a true cyst but a distension of the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa.

SYMPTOMS

A palpable bump behind the knee, especially when standing or fully extending the leg, along with pain and restricted mobility.

CAUSE

Increased synovial fluid production is commonly caused by knee damage (e.g., cartilage tears) or arthritis.

TREATMENT

• Conservative (At-Home) Care: Resting the knee, using crutches, and applying ice packs for 10–15 minutes several times a day reduces pain and swelling.
• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are used to manage pain and inflammation.
• Fluid Drainage (Aspiration): A doctor uses a needle to drain fluid from the cyst, often guided by ultrasound, to relieve pressure.
• Corticosteroid Injection: Cortisone is injected into the knee joint to reduce inflammation, which may reduce the cyst’s size.
• Physical Therapy: Gentle, range-of-motion exercises and knee-strengthening exercises (quads, hamstrings) are recommended to improve function.
• Treating Underlying Causes: If the cyst is caused by a meniscus tear or arthritis, treating that condition (e.g., arthroscopic surgery) usually resolves the cyst.
• Surgery: If other treatments fail, surgery to remove or close off the cyst may be considered.