When we are talking about the Baker’s cyst, it is referred to as a fluid-filled cyst which causes swelling and sensation of tightness behind the knees. The pains can become aggravated when you bend or extend your knee or when you are active.
A Baker’s cysts are also referred to as popliteal cyst and it often occurs due to a problem with the joint of the knee for example arthritis or a cartilage tear. These two conditions mention can make the knee to produce excess fluid, which can lead to Baker's cyst.
Although when Baker's cyst is left untreated it can cause swelling and discomfort. When the probable major problem of Baker’s cyst is treated, it often provides relief.
What Causes Baker's Cysts?
Three things make up the knee and they are the bone, tendon, and cartilage. It is important to lubricate the tendons and the cartilage and they are lubricated by the synovial liquids. The lubrication enhances smooth movement of the legs and reduces friction.
There are several pouches which are referred to as the bursae, in each knee, through which the synovial fluid circulates. There is a valve-like system that lies between the popliteal bursa (a pouch behind the knee and the joint). This valve-like system assists in the regulation of the flow of synovial fluid.
In the event that the knee produces an excessive amount of synovial fluid, this can lead to accumulation of the fluid in the popliteal bursa.
This can be caused by an inflammation of the knee joint, usually because of the major condition such as:
1. Gout - the level of uric acid increases in blood to the point that it becomes excessive (hyperuricemia). This causes the accumulation of urate crystals around the joints. This causes inflammation and intense pain.
2. Hemophilia – this is a hereditary disease in which the blood does not clot properly, causing internal bleeding and joint damage.
3. Lupus –it is an autoimmune disease where the immune system which is meant to protect the body against external bodies attacks healthy, normal tissues.
4. Osteoarthritis – this is a form of arthritis caused by inflammation, breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in the joints - the cartilage wears down over time.
5. Psoriasis - Some patients also have pain and inflammation in the joints.
6. Reactive arthritis – this is a chronic (long-term) form of arthritis with inflamed joints, eye inflammation and inflammation of the genital system, the urinary or gastrointestinal system.
7. Rheumatoid arthritis – this is an inflammatory form of arthritis.
8. Septic arthritis – this is a joint inflammation and the underline causative organism is bacteria.
9. Injury – injury or trauma to the knee for example cartilage may result in a Baker cyst and they have been known to be common among athletes.
What are the symptoms of a Baker’s Cyst?
Most of the time there is only a minor pain which can show the presence of Baker's cyst. The first damage caused by the Baker's cyst can be knee pain. A lump which can be soft can grow out from the back of the knee. Any strain can cause the lump or the knee to swell in size.
There is every possibility that the Baker's cyst can disappear on its own. It can also reduce in size on its own or rupture underneath the skin. When the cyst burst under the skin, the fluid that came out becomes absorbed back into the body. The best thing that should be done is treating the origin of the knee problem; this is done to remove the Baker's cysts.
Baker's Cyst Treatment
Treatment for a Baker's Cyst requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your knee. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your elbow to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Tendon and Ligament Poultice
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
