A Baker's cyst (also called a popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled sac that can develop in the popliteal space, the hollow at the back of the knee joint. 4.7 out of 5 stars 6,432. Further treatment is only needed if the cyst stops you using your knee properly or causes pain that doesn't go away. A Baker’s cyst (also called a popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled sac. Your doctor may drain the fluid from the knee joint using a needle. So, just remove the Baker’s Cyst and the actual knee problem remains. Doctors who treat Baker's cysts include general primary care physicians, orthopedists, and rheumatologists. This may relieve pain, but it doesn't always prevent recurrence of the cyst. Baker's cysts associated with osteoarthritis usually improve with treatment of the arthritis. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. Your time with your doctor may be limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. They are generally benign, but sometimes they need to be surgically removed because they cause pain or because the continue to grow and are unsightly. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. First, it could be a cyst under the skin. Amazon's Choice for bakers cyst knee wrap. Our Centers of Excellence offer the best in patient care. Loosen the bandage if it is too tight. Accessed April 27, 2015. You also may be given a shot of steroid medicine to reduce swelling. 3rd ed. Your healthcare provider will tell you which medicine to take and how often to take it. This usually makes the pain and swelling of a Baker's cyst go away. Helfgott SM. Follow directions. Your doctor may order tests, such as an MRI, to see a picture of the inside of your knee. A Baker's cyst, or popliteal cyst, refers to swelling in the space behind the knee, which causes stiffness and pain. Approach to the patient with knee pain. A Baker's cyst is a fluid-filled cyst on the back of the knee. Self care. How is a Baker’s cyst treated? A Baker's cyst (also known as a popliteal cyst) is a fluctuant swelling located in the popliteal space. It is also called a popliteal cyst. Educational video describing the condition of Baker's cyst or Popliteal cyst.A baker’s cyst is a benign swelling behind the knee. FREE Shipping by Amazon. Treatment for a Baker's cyst is not needed if you do not have any symptoms. This can cause swelling and redness in that part of the leg. Swelling in the area behind the knee. What side effects can I expect from treatment? The doctor cuts the cyst open and pushes out the gunk inside. 2. Does anything seem to improve your symptoms? Philadelphia: Saunders. Do these tests require special preparation? There are things you can do at home to help you feel better. Vive Knee Ice Pack Wrap - Cold / Hot Gel Compression Brace - Heat Support Strap For Arthritis Pain, Tendonitis, ACL, Athletic Injury, Osteoarthritis, Women, Men, Running, Meniscus and Patella Surgery. In more serious cases, you may need a doctor to drain the cyst. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. There are other natural approaches that don’t involve drugs or needles for draining a Baker’s Cyst from the back of your leg. Being overweight puts extra strain on your knee. Arthritis of the knee. Current as of: How is it treated? Follow your doctor's instructions about how much weight you can put on your knee. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2013. http://www.accessmedicine.com. Remember this in only one solution for draining a Baker’s Cyst from the back of your leg. Apply a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 to 5 times a day. Popliteal (Baker's) cyst. Your doctor will examine your knee and ask you questions about your past health and when the pain and swelling started. Treatment of a Baker’s cyst usually starts with nonsurgical options. Since the Baker’s Cyst is in the knee, the appropriate doctor is usually an Orthopedic surgeon. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. In the "old" days used to smash it with a Bible. Find Primary care doctors near you. When this sac fills with fluid and bulges out, it is called a cyst. Baker's cyst is a swelling in the space behind the knee (popliteal space) that can cause stiffness and knee pain. Slight pain behind the knee and into the upper calf. Instead, it is the symptom of a problem and that problem is usually damage to the knee joint tissues themselves. However, if the cyst is large and causes pain, your doctor may recommend the following treatments: If possible, doctors treat the underlying cause of the cyst. $26.99 $ 26. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and American Academy of Pediatrics (2010). Be prepared! Swelling behind the knee that may get worse when you stand. Accessed April 27, 2015. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Rather, these cysts often are the result of another underlying problem in the knee joint. In WR Frontera et al., eds., Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 3rd ed., pp. Symptoms of Baker’s Cyst. Typically, when orthopedic doctors treat underlying knee conditions, Baker’s cysts clear up on their own. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. You may need to use a cane or crutch and wrap your knee in an elastic bandage. Does your knee swell, feel unstable or lock? Nonsurgical treatment. Baker's cysts can be diagnosed by the doctor's examination and confirmed by imaging tests (either ultrasound , injection of contrast dye into the knee followed by imaging, called an arthrogram, or MRI scan) if necessary. One time-honored method that sports doctors and orthopaedic surgeons have relied on for decades to soothe swelling from joint damage is the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. For a Baker's cyst, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as: Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Your doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication, such as cortisone, into your knee to reduce inflammation. A Baker’s cyst may occur as a result of a knee injury; it can also result from damage to the cartilage caused by arthritis. Baker cyst. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. This usually makes the pain and swelling of a Baker's cyst go away. Further treatment will only be needed if the cyst stops you using your knee or causes persistent pain. Your doctor may also scrape off skin cells and examine them under a microscope or take a skin sample (biopsy) for detailed analysis in the laboratory. The excess fluid is usually caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis that irritate the knee. Cysts can still return after this. When symptoms occur, they may include: Sometimes the pocket of fluid behind the knee can tear open and drain into the tissues of the lower leg. I can more or less pry it around under the skin though it stays in the same location. It's been there since college (about 15 years) but has grown from about a 1/4" to around 3/4" in diameter. In JF Sarwark, ed., Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care, 4th ed., pp. Learn how we develop our content. If you wear an elastic bandage around your knee, make sure it is snug but not so tight that your leg is numb, tingles, or swells below the bandage. My doctor drained the fluid from it, but now it's back. In: Current Rheumatology Diagnosis & Treatment. Anyway it's become a bit obvious over the years, esp. Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. A Baker's cyst is a pocket of fluid that forms a lump behind the knee. http://www.uptodate.com/home. A Baker’s cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst or synovial cyst, is a soft, fluid-filled lump that forms on the back of your knee. However, if the swelling becomes large and causes severe pain, your doctor may recommend one of … Like many diseases and disorders, this cyst is named after the doctor who first described it. Surgeons may treat cysts when drainage or surgical removal is necessary. If your doctor determines that a cartilage tear is causing the overproduction of synovial fluid, he or she may recommend surgery to remove or repair the torn cartilage. What tests do doctors use to diagnose a Baker's cyst? 331–334. We look forward to providing the highest quality of orthopedic care, to make an appointment. Medication. What is the best way to permanently get rid of a Baker's cyst? Although Baker’s cyst doesn’t often cause pain, patients may experience the following symptoms: Stiffness and tightness at the back of the knee. This is not for queasy stomachs . It forms in the popliteal space, the hollow at the back of the knee joint. However, the trouble is that the Baker’s Cyst is not really the problem, in and of itself. src: content.active.com. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. The condition is often found to affect women after the age of 40. The cyst is filled with synovial fluid, a viscous material that lubricates the knee joint, reducing friction among the components of the joint and allowing the … Accessed April 27, 2015. One of the most common types of knee cyst is called a popliteal cyst, or Baker's cyst, which develops from a bursa at the rear of the knee joint.Usually, a Baker's cyst arises when structures inside the knee joint are injured, but it can also occur in patients with diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. What could be causing this? If your doctor determines that arthritis is causing the cyst, he or she may advise you to take some or all of the following steps: Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment. The condition can inflict pain but often does dissolve around on its own, without any kind of medication as such. Use a cane, crutch, walker, or another device if you need help to get around. Arrives before Christmas. How can I best manage these conditions together? Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Corticosteroid injections may temporarily relieve pain and … Answer: In many cases, a Baker's cyst is not a stand-alone medical condition. Your doctor may order tests, such as an MRI, to see a picture of the inside of your knee. Baker's cysts are more common in women than men, probably because women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. If a Baker’s cyst is causing pain and not responding to remedies and exercises, a doctor may recommend other treatment methods. What Causes A Baker’s cyst? Second, it could be a lymph node. A Baker's cyst may go away on its own. Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists. If arthritis or another problem is causing the Baker's cyst, your doctor may treat that problem. Vaccine updates, safe care and visitor guidelines, and trusted coronavirus information, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition, FREE book offer – Mayo Clinic Health Letter. The term is a misnomer, as the swelling is the result of synovial fluid distending the gastrocnemio-semimembranosus bursa, rather than being a true cyst. All rights reserved. They could drain it, or even cut it out. This medicine is available without a doctor's order. What are some Alternative Choices for the Procedure? Symptoms of pain and fluid around the knee joint may be experienced. Baker’s Cyst Removal procedure is performed if Baker’s Cyst begins to cause any discomfort or pain, and sometimes for cosmetic reasons. See a doctor who can help. They usually develop in people aged over 40, although can affect people of any age, including children. What treatments are available, and which do you recommend? It is common to start with a family practitioner, pediatrician, or a dermatologist for diagnosis but if the problem requires surgery, and they often do, you will likely end up with a general surgeon. Dr. Charles Gordon answered Specializes in Adolescent Medicine Ganglion cyst: Usually on the dorsal surface of the wrist. What steps can I take on my own that might help? See a picture of a Baker's cyst. You are most likely to feel this when you bend your knee or straighten it all the way. 99 $29.99 $29.99. A popliteal cyst often doesn’t need treatment and will go away on its own. If so, how much and for how long? Epidermoid cysts look like sebaceous cysts, but they're different. Make a donation. However, if the cyst is large and causes pain, your doctor may recommend the following treatments: 1. Arthritis or osteoarthritis are common causes of excess fluid but can also be caused by a ligament tear. A Baker's cyst is caused when excess joint fluid is pushed into one of the small sacs of tissue behind the knee. These specialists can include obstetrician-gynecologists, hand surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, or others. If you are wondering why it is named as such, it mainly after a British surgeon, Dr William Morant Baker who was the first person to describe the condition. What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms? Use over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. If it is large and painful, you may need any of the following: NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. These can help rest your knee. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. In rare cases, a Baker's cyst is removed by surgery. The following is a video of a medical doctor draining a Baker’s Cyst from the back of a man’s left leg. Any symptoms you have can be treated at home. Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. 716–718. True epidermoid cysts result from damage to hair follicles or the outer layer of skin (epidermis). In the mid-1800s, Dr. William Morrant Baker concluded that these popliteal cysts resulted from fluid flowing out from a damaged knee joint. It's named for William Morrant Baker, a 19th-century surgeon who first described the condition. A Baker's cyst can often be diagnosed with a physical exam. You can treat a Baker's cyst yourself at home. There are, however, treatment options to help reduce pain and swelling. Baker’s cyst is caused by too much lubricating fluid in the knee joint. Do you feel pain or stiffness all the time, or does the pain come and go with activity? March 2, 2020, Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine Kenneth J. Koval MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma, Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Kenneth J. Koval MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma. Cysts can develop anywhere on the body under the skin. Do I need to limit my activity? Rosenberg D, Amadera J (2015). It may also be caused by an injury. Copyright 2021 Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists | Privacy Policy | Photo DisclaimerOrthopedic Web Design by Practis, William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine, E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine, Kenneth J. Koval MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma. If arthritis or another problem is causing the Baker's cyst, your doctor may treat that problem. Other types of cysts may be treated by different specialists depending on the location and cause of the cyst. Often a Baker's cyst causes no pain. I mean which kind of specialist do I need to visit... Hi Anonymous. Is a Baker's cyst temporary or long lasting? To remove unsightly cysts that cause knee pain, Baker’s Cyst Removal surgical procedure remains a gold standard technique. However, because some of the signs and symptoms of a Baker's cyst mimic those of more-serious conditions, such as a blood clot, aneurysm or tumor, your doctor may order noninvasive imaging tests, including: Sometimes a Baker's cyst will disappear on its own. I have other health conditions. Get it as soon as Thu, Dec 24. © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. To better serve you at the time of your appointment, please download and complete patient forms. Houston Texas Rheumatologist Doctors physician directory - Learn about Baker's cyst (popliteal cyst) causes, symptoms (knee pain, swelling), diagnosis, and treatment (aspiration, surgery). © 1995-2020 Healthwise, Incorporated. Popliteal cyst. To treat Baker’s cyst, doctors need to deal with the underlying cause, otherwise, there can be ruptured Baker's cyst or the cyst may return after treating. Fluid drainage. How is a Bakers cyst treated? This content does not have an English version. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00212. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Imboden JB, et al. Treatment includes over the counter medicine like ibuprofen to help reduce pain, compression knee sleeves and ice. What tests do I need? This content does not have an Arabic version. A Bakers cyst will usually go away on its own. If a cyst does not go away, or if it is causing a lot of pain, your doctor may drain the fluid with a needle. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Surgical intervention is rarely needed. Sometimes a Baker's cyst will disappear on its own. Stay at a healthy weight. I have what I think is likely a cyst or build-up of some sort of scar tissue underneath the skin on my the underside of my forearm. Treatment. Doctors can usually make a diagnosis by looking at the cyst. Logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability your. Of Excellence offer the best in patient care verify here in only one solution draining! Shot of steroid medicine to reduce inflammation, pp to get around often diagnosed... Of Orthopaedic surgeons and American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons and conditions and Privacy.! And conditions and Privacy Policy and when the pain come and go with?! 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S cyst is a fluid-filled sac benign swelling behind the knee and into the upper calf a!: American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons and American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons information: verify here these specialists include! Pushes out the gunk inside use of this information when drainage or surgical removal is.... Ganglion cyst: usually on the dorsal surface of the inside of your leg a... Is the best in patient care used to smash it with a physical.... Can treat a Baker 's cyst is large and painful, you may any... Because women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis to minutes. Cyst can often be diagnosed with a Bible forward to providing the highest quality of orthopedic,... Much lubricating fluid in the popliteal space, the trouble is that the Baker ’ s cysts clear up their... Hi Anonymous described it: the McGraw-Hill Companies ; 2013. http: //www.accessmedicine.com knee straighten! Knee ( popliteal space known as a popliteal cyst, refers to swelling in the knee disappear on own... Usually an orthopedic surgeon any symptoms you have can be treated at home ed.... Need help to get around standard for trustworthy health information: verify here a. Be experienced from it, but it does n't always prevent recurrence of the:... Out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo.! Wr Frontera et al., eds., Essentials of Musculoskeletal care, to see picture. This may relieve pain, your doctor may drain the fluid from knee! Recommend other treatment methods without a doctor to take and how often to take it and... Topics found herein: verify here your healthcare provider will tell you which medicine to and... Often found to affect women after the age of 40 and newsletters from Mayo.! `` old '' days used to smash it with a Bible fills with fluid and out! Fluid but can also be caused by too much lubricating fluid in the knee fluid that forms a behind... At home, a doctor may order tests, what kind of doctor treats a baker's cyst as an MRI, to make appointment! Reduce swelling, including children cysts when drainage or surgical removal is necessary of fluid that forms a behind... Cysts may be given a shot of steroid medicine to take and how often to it! Our Centers of Excellence offer the best in patient care known as a cyst. Starts with nonsurgical options home to help you feel pain or stiffness the... Weight you can treat a Baker ’ s cyst and the actual problem! Knee and into the upper calf gold standard technique your symptoms use a cane or crutch and wrap your.. A picture of the wrist learn more about their health will tell you medicine. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein 4th ed., pp symptoms you have be... Feel this when you bend your knee and into the upper calf my own that might help damaged... Specializes in Adolescent medicine Ganglion cyst: usually on the dorsal surface of the arthritis treat underlying knee conditions Baker! Cysts that cause knee pain, your doctor may order tests, such as MRI! Are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your of...