popliteal cyst

popliteal cyst

Baker's cyst, see there

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Patient discussion about popliteal cyst.

Q. I have a swelling in the back of my knee, what is it? A few weeks ago I fell while exercising. Now I have a swelling in the back on my right knee and it hurts me to walk long distances. What could be causing this?

A. It could be baker's cyst. A Baker cyst, also called a popliteal cyst, is swelling caused by knee joint fluid protruding to the back of the knee (popliteal area of the knee). When an excess of knee joint fluid is compressed by the body weight between the bones of the knee joint, it can become trapped and separate from the joint to form a fluid-filled sac, referred to as a Baker cyst. You should see a Doctor to have it examined.

Q. I was diagnosed with "Baker's cyst". The pain in very irritating. what can I do to ease the pain? I was diagnosed with "Baker's cyst". The pain in very irritating but I prefer not to undergo surgery or steroid injections. is there another more "holistic" way to take care of my situation?

A. Here are some more "holistic" options that helped me (though you should consult your doctor before doing anything...):
Knee bracing and quadriceps physiotherapy.
If you don't want surgery and don't want to be injected with steroids, but it is OK with you to suction the cyst - I heard it can help a lot, but I must say I didn't try it.

Q. My son was diagnosed with baker's cyst. Is he in a risk group for other articular diseases? As far as I understand baker's cyst is a risk factor for other diseases. Is it true? Do we need to send him to some special screening tests?

A. Baker's cyst is not a risk factor for articular diseases in children. You don't need any special screening test. Statistically the cyst will disappear after a while.