Baker’s Cyst

When the bursa behind the knee becomes inflamed, a popliteal cyst known as a Baker’s cyst, can form as the bursa fills with more fluid than normal. It can be the result of a sports injury, but also due to progressive conditions such as osteoarthritis or gout.

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Baker’s cyst

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A Baker’s cyst can affect any age group as there are a number of reasons why the soft tissue behind the knee can become inflamed. If the knee joint is damaged due to arthritis, meniscal tears or ligament damage, a Baker’s cyst is often a symptom of an underlying problem.

The bursa behind the knee joint swells as it becomes inflamed and causes pain and a sense of fullness behind the knee that can limit normal movement. Occasionally, you may experience locking or clicking in the knee joint. In rare cases, the cyst can rupture and there is sharp pain, redness and swelling in the calf as well.

FAQs

+ How is Baker’s cyst diagnosed?

During your knee pain consultation with Mr David Houlihan-Burne, he will discuss your symptoms in full and examine the knee. If necessary, he will organise an ultrasound or MRI scan to assess whether damage to the knee joint is the cause of the Baker’s cyst.

+ How is Baker’s cyst treated?

Mr David Houlihan-Burne will recommend non-surgical treatment initially. By resting and icing the knee, using compression bandages and taking anti-inflammatory medication, the swelling will usually go down. However, you will usually need surgery to drain or remove the cyst and you may need a surgical operation to repair any other damage to the knee joint.