Baker’s Cyst
It is also known as Popliteal cyst which is basically a fluid-filled sac that is developed at the back of knee. It is commonly associated with Knee osteoarthritis (degenerative condition of knee) in adult population. However, in children it forms as a result of herniation of posterior knee joint capsule or synovium. It commonly forms in individual who have history of trauma such as meniscus injury or in individuals with degenerative or inflammatory condition such as Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis.[1] In majority of cases, it is asymptomatic and hence can only be diagnosed in accidental physical examination. It usually occurs in 3rd and 7th decade of life.[1]
Common Symptoms that You Might Experience
- Tightness, discomfort or pain behind knee
- Marked visible swelling on posterior aspect of knee when you are standing with knee fully straight
- Stiffness
- Disappearance of swelling when knee is bend to almost 45 degrees (Foucher’s sign)
- Oedema of lower limb due to compression of surrounding vessels by cyst
- Sensation of water running down the calf on rupture of cyst
How Physical Therapy can Help You
Physical therapy evaluation of Baker’s cyst focuses more on clinical observation to rule out other pathologies. It could be associated with Meniscus tear, which needs to be confirmed with the clinical examination or radiological tests.
You might have limited knee flexion range due to presence of large cyst. Cyst might be tender on palpation. We effectively manage your Baker’s cyst through following scientific evidence based approaches:
In intial stages, when pain is preventing you from bending your knee, it is our first priority to reduce your pain. This can be done effectively by using Ice packs which constricts surrounding blood vessels and thereby helps in reducing swelling. Other than this, to improve knee stiffness, movement of knee within pain free range also serves an important purpose. Kinesio Tape can also be done which helps in reducing inflammation as well as improves mobility. In addition to this, strengthening exercises for surrounding muscles including Quadriceps, Hamstring, Gluteus Medius and Minimus helps in providing more stability to knee joint.
If you suspect that you are having Baker’s cyst then:
- Avoid activities that put excessive strain on your knees
- Don’t avoid your pain
- Avoid attempting to drain cyst by yourself
Effective management of Baker’s cyst requires multifaceted approach that includes physical therapy and self care. By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can effectively manage symptoms and improve your overall knee health.
References:
1) Leib, A. D., Roshan, A., Foris, L. A., & Varacallo, M. (2023). Baker’s cyst. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
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