Baker’s Cyst
A Baker’s cyst (popliteal cyst) is a mass of synovial fluid located in the popliteal fossa at the back of the knee.
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Additional Information
Home Treatments
- Initial treatment should address the underlying cause of the cyst (such as an injury to the cartilage inside the knee)
- Ice and compression will often aid in swelling management in these cases
Professional Medical Treatments
- Aspiration (fluid drainage using a needle) often provides temporary relief, however if the underlying issue is not addressed, reoccurrence is likely
- Your GP may inject a corticosteroid medication (usually cortisone) however as above, this may often only provide temporary relief
- Surgery may also be an option in athletes with a large symptomatic mass. This may once again only be a temporary solution if the underlying cause is not addressed. This is a rarely used option.
- Surgery may be necessary for the original injury that led to the cyst to prevent reoccurrence. This may often involve removing or repairing damaged cartilage inside the knee.
Physical Therapy Exercises
- Range of motion and strengthening exercises for the muscles around your knee are very helpful in optimising range and preserving function of the knee. These exercises can further be used to address the underlying condition and optimise knee mechanics to avoid repetitive stresses to intra-articular structures
Prevention
- Ensuring optimal rehabilitation of articular injuries in the knee