Baker’s Cyst
Find out more about baker’s cyst and how Torrance Pain Institute can help you manage your pain, improve your quality of life, and get back to doing the things you enjoy.
What is Baker’s cyst?
A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled sac that causes a bulge and feeling of tightness behind your knee. It develops when your knee develops too much fluid due to arthritis or cartilage tear. The pain can get worse when you fully extend your knee or when you’re moving.
What causes Baker’s cyst?
A lubricating fluid called synovial fluid allows your leg to swing smoothly and reduces friction between the moving parts of your knee. When the knee produces too much of this fluid, it builds up on the back of the knee and causes a Baker’s cyst. Fluid buildup happens because of inflammation in the knee joint or knee injury.
What are the symptoms of Baker’s cyst?
Signs and symptoms of Baler’s cyst include:
- Swelling behind your knee
- Swelling in your leg
- Knee pain
- Stiffness and inability to bend or extend your knee
These symptoms get worse after you’ve been active or standing for a long time.
What is the treatment for Baker’s cyst?
Treatments for Baker’s cyst include corticosteroid injection, physical therapy, and baker’s cyst aspiration. If you prefer to have the fluid drained, you can talk to our pain management doctor at Torrance Pain Institute to learn more about the procedure.