Popliteal Cyst or Bakers Cyst

A Baker’s cyst by itself is usually not life threatening. However, it is a sign there there may be something wrong with your knee and may cause some discomfort and pain.

A Bakers cyst is a fluid filled sac that lies at the back of your knee. It can appear suddenly after an injury to the knee. The cyst communicates with the knee joint and fluid travels from within the knee, forming the cyst. (Pai, 2022).

The cyst is often diagnosed with a physical exam. However, because some of the signs and symptoms of a Baker’s cyst, it may mimic a blood clot, aneurysm or tumor (Baker’s Cyst, 2022). Your physicians may order an ultrasound or x-ray to confirm the diagnosis.

A Baker’s cyst may fluctuate in size but alternating an ice pack with heat and elevating the effective limb can be an effective measure. If the pain does not improve with these measures, see your physician.

Just keeping you informed.

References

Baker Cyst. (2022). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bakers-cyst/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369955

HealthPrep Staff (2022) Causes and Risk Factors of a Baker’s Cyst. https://healthprep.com/conditions/causes-risk-factors-bakers-cyst/?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=370437808&utm_content=1266638077255350&utm_term=bakers cysts treatments&msclkid=e070c479a41e10a870cda6db9109fe3a

Pai, V. (2022). Should I be Worried About My Baker’s Cyst? https://vishalpai.com.au/news/bakers-cyst-knee