Baker's Cyst

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

A Baker's cyst is also called a popliteal cyst. It is an abnormal swelling of a bursa behind the knee. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that is found between tendons and muscles. Bursas decrease friction (rubbing) between tendons, bones, and skin. A Baker's cyst may be caused by arthritis or trauma (injury) of the knee. You may have a bulge in the back of the knee when standing or walking, that disappears when the knee is bent. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or tightness behind the knee. You may have a test to show that the cyst is filled with fluid. Diagnosis may be made using joint x-ray, computerized tomography (CAT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound. Treatment for Baker's cyst will depend on it's size and the symptoms you have. A Baker’s cyst that is small and does not cause problems is treated with bed rest and rehabilitation or "rehab" of the knee. Large or painful cysts may need surgery.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Learn why you take each medicine. Ask your caregiver for information about your medicine. Do not use any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
  
  
• Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver. If you are taking medicine that makes you drowsy, do not drive or use heavy equipment.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

Physical therapy: Your caregiver may want you to go to physical therapy. A physical therapist will help you with special exercises. These exercises help make your bones and muscles stronger.

Preventing knee injury:

• Warm up and stretch your muscles before playing your sport or doing your activity.
  
  
• Wear appropriate shoes that will support your activity.
  
  
• Cool down after your activity by doing gentle and prolonged stretches.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever (increased body temperature).
  
  
• Your pain does not improve with medicine.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your disease, medicine, or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You have bruising on the ankle of the leg with the cyst, or bluish discoloration on the calf below the affected knee.
  
  
• You have swelling or bleeding on the leg with the cyst.
  
  
• You notice any abnormal signs, such as growth of the cyst.
  
  
• Your pain becomes severe or worse.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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