Baker's Cyst

What is a bakers cyst?

This is a swelling which develops to the back of your knee.



When you are affected with this, you won't be able to notice symptoms during its early stages. However, as it continues to develop, you will become more aware of it. You will also experience pain and discomfort, especially when you straighten out or bend your knee. Your specialist will be able to know where the cyst has developed when you stand up.



When your knee is affected with any type of disease, this will most likely lead to baker's cyst.

More specifically, bakers cyst is an accumulation of fluid at the back of your knee. This is formed when the normal bursa (fluid sac for lubrication) connects with your knee joint. This ailment is commonly found in young children.

Some of the reasons for developing bakers cyst

Injury – when your knee experiences an injury or a trauma, there is a high tendency that fluid may accumulate.
Infection – when your knee is infected, this can also lead to the collection of fluid around the joints.
Torn cartilage – this happens when the cartilages, which bolster both sides of your knee joints, have been affected.
Arthritis – the risk of developing the cyst is more likely when you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Unknown reasons – this medical condition can affect kids for no known causes.

Almost a half of these cases are found in kids, wherein the developing mass appears behind the knee. When the mass is large, the patient experiences stiffness or pain, although there are no general symptoms. There are times when the baker's cyst fades away spontaneously. When symptoms are noticed, these include the following:

• a swelling or soft lump is pronounced behind the knee
• when it is touched, it feels like a balloon which is filled with water
• the mobility of the knee joint is limited
• ache or pain persists
• when the knee is extended, there is a feeling of tightness
• there is stiffness to the knee

Through MRI or ultrasound, the doctor will be able to determine whether the lump is cancerous or not. If ever a blood clot is suspected, then another ultrasound may have to be performed. Other types of examinations will also be performed on you.

When your condition does not manifest symptoms, no specific treatment is required. Generally, you will only be advised to rest and elevate your legs. When called for, the lump is aspirated to lessen its size. Then it is injected with corticosteroid to lessen the inflammation. However, when the mass is large and painful, then it has to be removed through surgical procedures.