Baker’s cyst, also known as popliteal cyst, is a fluid-filled swelling that causes a bulge and tight feeling behind the knee. It is often a result of another condition, such as arthritis or a knee injury. The cyst is formed when excess synovial fluid, which lubricates the knee joint, bulges out of the joint capsule and forms a pocket behind the knee.
Symptoms of Baker’s cyst can include swelling behind the knee, stiffness and discomfort, especially when extending the knee or standing for long periods. In some cases, the cyst may rupture, causing sharp pain, swelling, and redness in the calf.
Treatment for Baker’s cyst typically involves addressing the underlying condition causing the cyst, such as arthritis or a tear in the knee meniscus. This may include medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or in severe cases, surgery to remove the cyst.
For those dealing with a Baker’s cyst, taking steps to manage underlying knee conditions is important in preventing recurrence. Strengthening the muscles around the knee through exercises, maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the knee joint, and avoiding activities that aggravate the cyst can also help manage symptoms.
Health Tips:
– Engage in low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, to keep the knee joint mobile without putting excessive strain on it.
– Wear supportive footwear and avoid standing or sitting in the same position for long periods to reduce pressure on the knee joint.
– If experiencing symptoms of a Baker’s cyst, seek prompt medical attention to address the underlying cause and prevent further complications.
I am Kumudhavarshini. A medical student from Chennai. I am currently doing my MBBS degree. I completed my schoolings in 2018. Right now I am in my second year. I completed my first year with 88%. I am not a topper but definitely a good above-average student at my college. I wanted to be a research journalist from the starting but I ended up in the medical field. But joining College, going to the hospital daily I got to know one thing that I can even outshine in this field and made myself clear to become a world’s leading Neurosurgeon
