Baker’s cyst
Definition
Baker’s cyst is also known as a popliteal cyst, is a type of fluid containing cyst behind knee.[2]
Here are few synonyms of Baker’s cyst :
- Popliteal cyst: This is the most common and medically accurate synonym. It refers to the location of the cyst, behind the knee joint in the popliteal fossa (hollow).
- Synovial cyst of the popliteal space: This is a more technical term that describes the cyst as a fluid-filled sac arising from the synovial membrane, a lubricating lining in the joint.
- Popliteal Baker’s cyst: This combines both "popliteal cyst" and "Baker’s cyst" for clarity.
Less Common Synonyms:
- Popliteal bursitis (not entirely accurate, as a bursa is a different structure than a cyst)
- Popliteal effusion (refers to the presence of fluid in the popliteal space, not specific to a cyst)
Overview
Epidemiology
Causes
Types
Risk Factors
Pathogenesis
Pathophysiology
Clinical Features
Sign & Symptoms
Clinical Examination
Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
Complications
Investigations
Treatment
Prevention
Homeopathic Treatment
Diet & Regimen
Do's & Don'ts
Terminology
References
Also Search As
Overview
Overview of Baker’s Cyst :
In another term popliteal cyst distend bursa or herniation of synovial membrane through the posterior part of capsule of the knee or escape of fluid through normal communication of bursa with the knee. It fill with synovial inside the knee joint. (Semimembranosus or medial gastrocnemius bursa)
It is most common in adult aged 35 to 70years and children aged 4 to 7 years.[3]
It is named after the surgeon who first described it, William Morrant Baker.
Epidemiology
Epidemiology
Baker’s cysts, also known as popliteal cysts, are relatively common, with a prevalence estimated to be between 5% and 38% in the general population. [8]
Reference:
Sanchis-Alfonso, V., & Rosello-Sastre, E. (2013). Popliteal cysts (Baker’s cysts). EFORT Open Reviews, 8(1), 1-8.
Year of Publication: 2013
Causes
Causes of Baker’s Cyst:
A lubricating fluid called synovial fluid helps your leg swing smoothly and reduces friction between the moving parts of your knee.
But sometimes the knee produces too much synovial fluid, resulting in buildup of fluid in an area on the back of your knee (popliteal bursa), causing a Baker’s cyst. This can happen because of:
- Inflammation of the knee joint, such as occurs with various types of arthritis
- A knee injury, such as a cartilage tear
It is usually arise from almost any form of knee arthritis or cartilage particularly a meniscus tear.
Bakers cyst arise between the tendons of the medial head of the gastrocnemius and the semimembranosus muscles.
The synovial sac of the knee joint can, under certain circumstances, produce a posterior bulge, into the popliteal space,[2]
Types
Types of Baker’s cyst:
Primary :
Idiopathic Bakers cyst. It usually develops in younger people and children.
Secondary :
Most common type. Develop if there is underlying problem within the knee, such as arthritis (Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis). Or a tear in the meniscal cartilage that lines the inside of the knee joint or an infection within the knee joint.[3]
Risk Factors
Risk factors of Baker’s Cyst:
- Past knee injuries or cartilage tears.
- Osteoarthritis—wear and tear of cartilage between bones.
- Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
- Previous knee surgery. (4)
Pathogenesis
Pathogenesis of Baker’s cyst
- Baker’s cysts, also known as popliteal cysts, are fluid-filled synovial sacs that protrude from the posterior aspect of the knee joint.
- They arise as a result of excessive fluid production within the joint, often due to underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis, meniscal tears, or rheumatoid arthritis.
- This increased fluid accumulates in the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa, a normal fluid-filled sac located behind the knee, causing it to distend and form a cyst. [9]
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology of Baker’s Cyst:
- A Baker’s cyst is an enlarged bursa that is normally located between the medial head of the gastrocnemius and a capsular reflection of the semimembranosus, named oblique popliteal ligament.
- The two requirements for a cyst formation are the anatomical communication and a chronic effusion.
- Knee joint effusions may replete the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa with synovial fluid and if the fluid outflow is hindered by a unidirectional mechanism, the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa enlarges giving rise to a pseudo cystic cavity, referred to as a Baker’s cyst. (5)
Clinical Features
Clinical Features of Baker’s cyst
Patients with a Baker’s cyst may be asymptomatic or present with posterior knee pain and swelling.
The cyst is best appreciated on physical examination when the patient stands with the knee in slight flexion.
It is a soft, smooth, and mobile mass that may be tender to palpation.
This cyst is located at or below the joint line in the medial aspect of the popliteal fossa.
It is important to differentiate a Baker’s cyst from other popliteal masses such as popliteal aneurysm, ganglion cyst, or soft tissue tumor.[10]
Sign & Symptoms
Sign & Symptoms of Baker’s Cyst:
- Swelling behind knee
- Pain may increase if cyst breaks open
- Knee stiffness and tightness especially when stranding up.[3]
- Sensation of clicking or locking of your knee.[3]
- Swelling of calf
- Rupture of a Bakers cyst may also cause bruising below the medial malleolus of the ankle. [2]
Clinical Examination
Clinical examination of Baker’s Cyst:
- Diagnosis is by examination. They are easier to see from behind with the patient standing with knees fully extended and then most easily felt with the knee partially flexed.
- A Baker cyst is a fluid-filled growth behind the knee. It causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness.
- Also called a popliteal cyst, a Baker cyst sometime causes pain.
- The pain can get worse when with activity or when fully straightening or bending the knee. (6)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Baker’s cyst:
- In General, Based on Physical Examination and clinical sign and symptoms of the patient.
- Moreover, A Baker’s cyst is easier to see from behind with the patient standing with knees fully extended.
- It is most easily palpated (felt) with the knee partially flexed.
- Transillumination test: Positive [3]
- In detail, If the lumps grows quickly or have night pain, severe pain, fever need more test to make sure other type of tumors [3]
- Besides this, Diagnosis is confirmed by ultrasonography although if needed and there is no suspicion of a popliteal artery aneurysm then aspiration of synovial fluid from the cyst may be undertaken with care.
- Lastly, An MRI mage can reveal presence of a Baker’s cyst.
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis of Baker’s Cyst :
- Lipomas
- Vascular mass
- Benign soft tissue tumor
- Thrombophlebitis
- Peripheral nerve sheath tumor [3]
Complications
Complications of Baker’s Cyst
Although Baker’s cysts are often asymptomatic and benign, they can occasionally lead to complications.
The most common complication is cyst rupture, which can cause acute pain, swelling, and erythema in the calf, mimicking deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Other potential complications include infection, nerve compression, and venous outflow obstruction. [11]
Investigations
Investigation
- Ultrasonography or MRI
- MRI shows high signal intensity homogenous cystic mass[3]
Treatment
Treatment :
- Baker’s cyst usually require no treatment unless they are symptomatic.
- It is very rare that the symptoms are actually coming from the cyst. In most cases, there is another disorder in the knee (e.g. arthritis, meniscal (cartilage) tear, etc.) that is causing the problem.
- Initial treatment should direct at correcting the source of the increased fluid production. Additionally, Often rest and leg elevation are all that is needed.
- If necessary, the cyst can aspirate to reduce its size, then injected with a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
- Surgical excision is reserve for cysts that cause a great amount of discomfort to the patient.
Ruptured cyst
- A ruptured cyst is treating with rest, leg elevation, and injection of a corticosteroid into the knee.
- Baker’s cysts in children, unlike in older people, nearly always disappear with time, and rarely require excision.
- Ice pack therapy may sometimes an effective way of controlling the pain related to Baker’s cyst, Heat is also commonly using.
- A knee brace can offer support giving the feeling of stability in the joint.[2]
- Supportive care/ Support stockings
- Physiotherapy
- Ice therapy
- Fluid Aspiration
- Steroid injection
- Surgical removal
Prevention
Prevention
- Wearing proper footwear.
- Using the balls of your feet to turn instead of your knees.
- Warming up properly before you exercise and cooling down afterward.
- Stopping immediately when you get a knee injury.(7)
Homeopathic Treatment
Homeopathic Treatment of Baker’s Cyst:
Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis.
which includes
- The medical history of the patient,
- Physical and mental constitution,
- Family history,
- Presenting symptoms,
- Underlying pathology,
- Possible causative factors etc.
A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions.
What Homoeopathic doctors do?
A homeopathy doctor tries to treat more than just the presenting symptoms. The focus is usually on what caused the disease condition? Why ‘this patient’ is sick ‘this way’?.
The disease diagnosis is important but in homeopathy, the cause of disease not just probed to the level of bacteria and viruses. Other factors like mental, emotional and physical stress that could predispose a person to illness also looked for. No a days, even modern medicine also considers a large number of diseases as psychosomatic. The correct homeopathy remedy tries to correct this disease predisposition.
The focus is not on curing the disease but to cure the person who is sick, to restore the health. If a disease pathology not very advanced, homeopathy remedies do give a hope for cure but even in incurable cases, the quality of life can greatly improved with homeopathic medicines.
Homeopathic Medicines for Bakers cyst:
The homeopathic remedies (medicines) given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications also taken into account for selecting a remedy.
Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution, family history, presenting symptoms, underlying pathology, possible causative factors etc.
A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. A homeopathy doctor tries to treat more than just the presenting symptoms. The focus is usually on what caused the disease condition? Why ‘this patient’ is sick ‘this way’.
The disease diagnosis is important but in homeopathy, the cause of disease is not just probed to the level of bacteria and viruses. Other factors like mental, emotional and physical stress that could predispose a person to illness are also looked for. No a days, even modern medicine also considers a large number of diseases as psychosomatic. The correct homeopathy remedy tries to correct this disease predisposition.
The focus is not on curing the disease but to cure the person who is sick, to restore the health. If a disease pathology is not very advanced, homeopathy remedies do give a hope for cure but even in incurable cases, the quality of life can be greatly improved with homeopathic medicines.
The homeopathic remedies (medicines)
given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications are also taken into account for selecting a remedy.
Benzoic acid
- Well indicated medicine for baker cyst. Benzoic Acid is a medicine used to treat a swollen knee due to gout.
- Along with swelling, painful nodes on the knee joint may be present.
- Gouty deposits of joints.
- Pain and swelling in knees.
- Drawing pain in the knees, a cracking sound upon movement also aggravation of the symptoms might indicate the need for this medicine.
- Bunion of great toe.
- Tearing pain in great toe.
- There are cracking sounds in joints on motion.[1]
Calcarea flour
- Well indicated medicine either for ganglia or encysted tumors at the back of the wrist and popliteal fossa.
- Gouty enlargements of the joints.
- Chronic synovitis of knee joint.
Iodum
- Joints inflamed also painful.
- Pain in knee joints at night.
- There occurs white swelling of joints.
- Specifically for acrid sweat from feet.
- Well indicated medicine for baker cyst.[1]
Silicea
- Well indicated medicine for baker cyst.
- Silicea is a natural medicine for housemaid’s knee also swelling when knee pains are tearing in nature.
- Pressure and exercise worsen the pain over the knee.
- The knee is also highly swollen and shining.
- Pain in knee, as if tightly bound, Pain beneath toes.
- Calves are tense also contracted.
- Loss of power in legs.
Mercurius solubis
- Well indicated medicine for baker cyst in knees.
- Contraction of legs and cramps in calves of legs
- There occur dropsical swelling of legs.
- There is great weakness, heaviness and painful weariness in thighs and legs. [1]
Diet & Regimen
Diet and Regimen
- Many activities can put strain on the knee, and cause pain in the case of Baker’s cyst.
- Avoiding activities such as squatting, kneeling, heavy lifting, climbing, and even running can help prevent pain.
- Despite this, some exercises can help relieve pain, and a physiotherapist may instruct on stretching and strengthening the quadriceps and/or the patellar ligament [2]
Do's & Don'ts
Do’s and Don’ts of Baker’s Cyst
Do’s:
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activities that aggravate knee pain and swelling.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Compression: Use compression bandages or elastic sleeves to provide support and reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your leg elevated when resting to minimize swelling.
- Consult a doctor: Seek medical advice for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
- Follow the recommended treatment plan: This may include physical therapy, medication, or aspiration of the cyst.
Don’ts:
- Don’t ignore the pain: Persistent pain or swelling should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Don’t engage in activities that worsen symptoms: Avoid high-impact activities or those that cause discomfort.
- Don’t self-treat without medical guidance: Avoid using home remedies or medications without consulting a doctor.
- Don’t apply heat to the affected area: Heat can increase inflammation and worsen symptoms.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can effectively manage a Baker’s cyst and minimize complications. Remember, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to a successful recovery.
Terminology
Terminology
Here are some of the key terminologies used in This article about Baker’s cysts, along with their meanings:
Medical Terms:
Popliteal cyst:
The most common medical term for a Baker’s cyst, referring to its location behind the knee in the popliteal fossa (the hollow area at the back of the knee).
Synovial cyst:
A general term for a fluid-filled sac arising from the synovial membrane, which is the lubricating lining of joints. In this context, it refers specifically to a Baker’s cyst.
Bursa:
A small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Baker’s cysts often involve the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa.
Synovial fluid:
A thick, slippery liquid that lubricates and nourishes joints. Excess production of this fluid can contribute to Baker’s cyst formation.
Meniscus:
A C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber and helps stabilize the joint. Meniscal tears are a common cause of Baker’s cysts.
Osteoarthritis:
A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones. It’s a common underlying cause of Baker’s cysts.
Rheumatoid arthritis:
- A chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that can affect many joints, including the knees. It can lead to synovial fluid buildup and Baker’s cyst formation.
Gout:
A type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe but can also affect the knee.
Aspiration:
The process of using a needle and syringe to remove fluid from a cyst or other body cavity.
Corticosteroid:
A type of medication that reduces inflammation and pain.
Transillumination:
A test where a light is shone through a body part to see if it is filled with fluid. Positive results suggest a fluid-filled cyst.
Erythema:
Redness of the skin, often caused by inflammation or injury.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Ruptured Baker’s cysts can mimic the symptoms of DVT.
Homeopathic Terms:
Miasmatic tendency:
A concept in homeopathy referring to a predisposition or susceptibility to certain diseases.
Therapeutic affinity:
The tendency of a homeopathic remedy to be effective for certain symptoms or conditions.
References
References :
- https://drkathyramsey.com/services/protocols/bakers-cyst
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baker%27s_cyst
- https://www.slideshare.net/jeabzsiwaporn/bakers-cyst-56272143
- https://www.winchesterhospital.org › health-library › article
- https://www.physio-pedia.com/Baker%27s_Cyst
- https://www.wikidoc.org › index.php › Baker’s_cyst_ph.
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org › health › 15183-bakers-cyst
- Sanchis-Alfonso, V., & Rosello-Sastre, E. (2013). Popliteal cysts (Baker’s cysts). EFORT Open Reviews, 8(1), 1-8.
- Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics, 14th Edition Authors: S. Terry Canale, James H. Beaty Year of Publication: 2021 Publisher: Elsevier
- Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, and Rehabilitation, 4th Edition Authors: Walter R. Frontera, Julie K. Silver, Thomas D. Rizzo Jr. Year of Publication: 2015 Publisher: Elsevier
- Miller’s Review of Orthopaedics, 7th Edition Authors: Mark D. Miller, Stephen R. Thompson Year of Publication: 2016 Publisher: Elsevier
Also Search As
Also Search As
General Search Terms:
- Baker’s cyst natural treatment
- Popliteal cyst homeopathic remedies
- Homeopathy for knee pain and swelling
- Alternative therapies for Baker’s cyst
- Non-invasive treatment for Baker’s cyst
Symptom-Focused Searches:
- Swelling behind the knee homeopathic treatment
- Knee pain remedies in homeopathy
- Stiffness in the knee joint natural remedies
- Homeopathy for clicking or locking knee
- Bruising behind the knee holistic treatment
Remedy-Specific Searches:
- Benzoic acid for knee pain
- Calcarea fluorica for joint swelling
- Iodum homeopathic uses for Baker’s cyst
- Silicea homeopathic remedy for knee pain
- Mercurius solubilis for leg cramps and swelling
Additional Search Ideas:
- Baker’s cyst causes and homeopathic solutions
- Homeopathic approach to knee injuries
- Can homeopathy cure Baker’s cyst?
- Safe and natural remedies for Baker’s cyst
- Homeopathic consultation for knee problems
Keyword Searches:
- Use specific terms like "Baker’s cyst" or "popliteal cyst" combined with "homeopathic treatment" or "homeopathic remedies" in search engines like Google. This should lead you to websites or articles discussing homeopathic approaches to managing Baker’s cysts.
- Include the names of the specific homeopathic remedies mentioned in the article (e.g., "Benzoic acid for Baker’s cyst," "Silicea for Baker’s cyst") to find more targeted information.
Search on Homeopathic Websites or Forums:
- Look for reputable homeopathic websites (e.g., National Center for Homeopathy) or online forums dedicated to homeopathic medicine. These platforms often have search functions or sections on specific conditions where you can find discussions or articles related to Baker’s cysts.
Consult a Homeopathic Practitioner:
- The most direct way to get personalized information would be to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner. They can assess your individual case and recommend suitable remedies and treatment plans based on your specific symptoms and constitution.
Search Academic Databases:
- If you’re looking for more scientific or research-based information, you can try searching academic databases like PubMed or Google Scholar. While there might not be extensive research on homeopathic treatment for Baker’s cysts, you might find some relevant case studies or articles discussing alternative therapies for knee conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Baker’s cyst?
Baker’s cyst is also known as a popliteal cyst, is a type of fluid containing cyst behind knee.
What are the causes of Baker’s cyst?
- Inflammation of the knee joint (arthritis)
- A knee injury (cartilage tear)
What are the symptoms of Baker’s cyst?
- Swelling behind knee
- Pain may increase if cyst breaks open
- Knee stiffness and tightness
- Sensation of clicking or locking of knee
- Swelling of calf
- Rupture of a Bakers cyst may cause bruising
Are there any home remedies for Baker's cyst?
Along with homeopathic remedies, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help manage symptoms. However, it’s important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
When should I see a doctor for a Baker's cyst?
If you experience persistent pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the knee area, or if the cyst is growing rapidly, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out other conditions and determine the best course of treatment.
Can homeopathy help with Baker's cysts?
Homeopathy offers a personalized approach to Baker’s cyst treatment, addressing the individual’s specific symptoms and underlying causes. Remedies like Benzoic acid and Silicea may be considered, but it’s essential to consult a qualified homeopath for proper assessment and treatment.
Is homeopathic treatment safe for Baker's cysts?
Homeopathic remedies are generally considered safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. However, it’s crucial to inform your homeopath about any existing medical conditions or medications you’re taking to avoid interactions.
How long does homeopathic treatment take to show results for Baker's cysts?
The response to homeopathic treatment can vary depending on individual factors and the severity of the condition. Some people may experience relief within a few weeks, while others may require longer-term treatment.
Can homeopathy be combined with conventional treatment for Baker's cysts?
Yes, homeopathy can be used alongside conventional treatments like physical therapy or pain medication. It’s essential to discuss any complementary therapies with your doctor to ensure a coordinated approach.
Homeopathic Medicines used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment of Baker’s cyst?
Homoeopathic Medicine for Baker’s cyst
- Benzoic acid
- Calcarea flour
- Iodum
- Silicea
- Mercurius solubis
