A Baker's cyst or popliteal cyst is a fluid-filled lump (cyst) inside the back of the knee. This condition causes the back of the knee to swell and become painful when the knee is moved. This pain causes the patient's movement to be limited.
Baker's cysts arise due to accumulation of fluid that lubricates the knee joint (synovial fluid). This accumulation of joint fluid is caused by injury or inflammation of the knee joint.
Baker's cysts can occur in anyone, both children and adults. However, cases of Baker's cyst are more common in women over the age of 40. Although harmless, treatment is needed when the size of the cyst has grown and is very painful.
Symptoms of Baker's Cyst
A symptom of a Baker's cyst is the appearance of a lump at the back of the knee that is more visible when standing. This lump can cause pain in the knee and knee joint stiffness, so that knee movement becomes limited. The pain and stiffness will get worse when the patient stands for a long time.
However, not all Baker's cysts are painful. This causes sufferers often do not realize it.
When to go to the doctor
Baker's cyst is not a dangerous condition and can sometimes go away on its own without treatment. Even so, you need to see a doctor if you find a lump on the body, including on the back of the knee, because the lump could be caused by another dangerous disease.
If the complaint due to Baker's cyst gets worse, causing redness and swelling in the calf, consult a doctor immediately.
Causes of Baker's Cyst
A Baker's cyst occurs when too much joint (synovial) fluid builds up in the back of the knee. Excessive production of joint fluid can occur due to:
- Inflammation of the knee joint, for example due to osteoarthritis.
- Injuries to the knee, such as a tear in the cartilage.
Baker's Cyst Diagnosis
As a first step, the doctor will perform a physical examination, especially . The patient is asked to lie in a prone position, then the doctor will examine the patient's knee in a straightened or bent knee condition.
To confirm the presence of a cyst, the doctor may also perform a scan, which includes:
- Knee ultrasoundThis examination aims to determine whether the lump contains liquid or solid substances, as well as to determine the location and size of the cyst.
- MRI
MRI aims to check for injuries associated with Baker's cysts.
- Knee X-rayThis examination is used to see the condition of the bones in the knee joint.
Baker's Cyst Treatment
Generally, Baker's cysts are harmless and will go away on their own. If the condition is mild, Baker's cyst can be treated with independent treatment at home in order to relieve swelling and pain, and make the sufferer feel more comfortable. The following are the steps to handle it:
- Compress the painful area with cold water.
- Reduce the activity of standing and walking.
- Position the legs so they are not hanging by using a support.
- When resting, position your legs so they don't hang by using a support.
- Use a cane when walking.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
If treatment at home still does not relieve complaints, consult a doctor for further treatment. Treatment for a Baker's cyst that is usually given is:
1. Corticosteroid injection
Doctors can inject corticosteroid drugs directly into the knee joint to reduce pain and swelling, but it doesn't guarantee that the cyst will not recur. These corticosteroid injections may take a few days or a few weeks to relieve symptoms.
2. The discharge of fluid in the cyst
This effort is carried out by doctors using a needle assisted by ultrasound to determine the location of the cyst and where it is punctured. This method is usually done for cases of Baker's cysts that are not too large.
3. Physiotherapy
Physical therapy or physiotherapy is done to increase the range of motion of the knee, namely by training the strength and flexibility of the muscles around the knee.
4. Surgical removal of the cyst
This procedure is performed by an orthopedic doctor if a Baker's cyst makes it difficult for the patient to move the knee and to prevent the cyst from growing back. The operation method can be done in two ways, namely open surgery and arthroscopy (operation with small incisions using an arthroscope).
Postoperative recovery takes 1-3 months, but can be faster if continued with physiotherapy.
Complications of Baker's Cyst
Although rare, complications can arise if a Baker's cyst is not treated promptly. Cysts that are not treated properly can rupture, causing inflammation of the calf. The calf will swell and become reddish in color.
In addition, Baker's cyst is also at risk of causing injury to the knee joint, such as cartilage tears.
Baker's Cyst Prevention
One of the causes of Baker's cyst is an injury to the knee. To avoid knee injuries, prevention can be done are:
- Warm up first before exercising.
- Wear comfortable shoes when exercising.
- See a doctor immediately if your knee feels sore after exercising.