Baker’s cyst, which is also known as a popliteal cyst, is a very common condition where a fluid-filled swelling develops at the back of the knee.
Symptoms of Baker’s Cyst
- Knee pain which may be dull or sharp
- Lump or swelling at the back of the knee which can vary from small to large
- Redness and warmth
- Joint locking
- Stiffness and difficulty to extending or flexing the leg
- Limited range of motion
- Numbness and weakness may occur when the lump becomes very large and compresses on a nerve
Causes of Baker’s Cyst
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Meniscal tear
- Any trauma or injury to the knee such a sprain or strain
- Gout
- Anterior cruciate ligament tear
- For younger individuals, Baker’s cysts often have no known cause
Physiotherapy Treatment for Baker’s Cyst
- R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
- Muscle conditioning and range of motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises especially for the muscles around the knee joint to provide more support and
- Therapeutic Ultrasound
- Stretching and flexibility exercises
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
- Joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage
- Laser Therapy
- Education and activity modification
- Recommendation for the proper assistive devices to lessen the load on the knee joint.
If you think you might have Baker’s Cyst, contact us to book an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists today!
