Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes Baker's cysts?

Baker's cyst is caused by joint fluid build-up in a bursa, or herniation of the synovial membrane through the back of the knee joint capsule. This can happen through: injury, infection, or arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis of the knee). for some Baker's cysts, the cause is unknown.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is a Baker's cyst?

A Baker's cyst, also called popliteal cyst, is an abnormal swelling at the back of the knee due to a build-up of synovial fluid within a bursa. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction at a joint.

How are Baker's cysts diagnosed?

Baker's cysts are diagnosed by: a physical examination and clinical history - your doctor will examine your knee and ask questions about your medical history; transillumination - the doctor will shine a light through the cyst to determine if it is …

How are Baker's cysts treated?

A Baker's cyst does not always require treatment. In particular, it is not usually recommended for children as the condition often goes away without treatment. Treatments can include: physiotherapy - icepacks, crutches and special exercises to maintain and …

Can a Baker's cyst burst?

Although rare, a Baker's cyst does have the potential to burst. When it does, it can result in sharp pain, swelling and redness of the leg. These symptoms resemble a blood clot in the leg, so it is important to seek medical attention.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury

Ligaments are bands of strong, flexible tissue that connect bones or cartilage, providing stability to joints. Knee ligament injuries can occur when your knee is hit forcefully, you land on it badly, or it sharply changes direction. Symptoms include swelling and pain, reduced movement, a popping sound, a feeling of instability and sometimes bruising.…
Diseases & conditions

Injury of knee ligaments

Ligaments are bands of strong, flexible tissue that connect bones or cartilage, providing stability to joints. Knee ligament injuries can occur when your knee is hit forcefully, you land on it badly, or it sharply changes direction. Symptoms include swelling and pain, reduced movement, a popping sound, a feeling of instability and sometimes bruising.…
Diseases & conditions

Meniscal tears

A tear in the meniscus is a common injury. It can cause pain and swelling of the knee and make it hard to move. What is a meniscus? Each of your knees has two menisci - crescent-shaped pieces of cartilage that pad the bones in your knee joint. They act as stabilisers, lubricants and shock absorbers. The blood supply to the menisci is precarious; the outer edges of a meniscus receive a good blood s…
Diseases & conditions

Knee pain

Knee pain is a common symptom experienced by most people at some point. It can be caused by an injury, degenerative disease or other underlying conditions. In most cases, resting the affected knee, elevating the leg and applying ice and gentle compression can help lessen the pain.…
Diseases & conditions

Rotator cuff injuries

The rotator cuff refers to a group of four muscles and their tendons, which form a supportive cuff where the upper arm bone joins the shoulder bone. Rotator cuff injury is a general term used to describe irritation, inflammation, or a tear to any of these muscles or tendons.…
Diseases & conditions

Torticollis

Torticollis is the involuntary twisting of the neck to one side due to painful spasms in the neck muscles. Also known as ‘wry neck’, it can occur at any age. Causes can include inflammation, infection or, in babies, an abnormal head posture in utero. In adults, almost all cases of torticollis resolve spontaneously, but infants need exercises to prevent ongoing problems.…

About this article

Author: Dr Bow Tauro PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 10 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Votes: 1175 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury

×

Content goes in here.