Baker's Cyst Information

Last reviewed on 16 January 2024 by Danniel Jacques (B.Med.Sci UNSW)

What is a Baker’s Cyst?

Baker's Cyst

A baker cyst is a painful condition which can be characterised by swelling in the back of the knee.

This swelling occurs due to inflammation in the synovial joint which encapsulates the knee resulting in the out-pouching of fluid into a little balloon type sac from the synovial lining.

When this condition develops, synovial fluid (which is normally contained in a tough capsule that encases the knee joint) collects in the baker’s cyst and bulges behind the knee.

This is also called a “popliteal cyst” as it directly affects the popliteal region of the knee (that shallow depression located behind the knee joints).

If left untreated it is possible for it to rupture. A ruptured baker’s cyst may then cause the collected synovial fluid to transfer and travel down the calf muscles of the legs. This can then trigger rapid swelling and discomfort of the leg which may then cause further complications.

What Causes a Baker’s Cyst?

Baker’s cysts are quite common and can be caused by nearly any joint-related inflammation. Some of the most common causes may include;

  • A micro tear in the knee’s meniscal cartilage
  • Repetitive stress injury.
  • Wear & tear in the knee (which is more common in older adults)
  • Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee (ACL injury)
  • Sports-related injury that affects the knee
  • The type of work that a person does may also make them more susceptible. This include jobs that involve being on your knees, such as a gardener or carpenter. Also such jobs that require long shifts without sitting or unusual weight loading through the knees such as nursing.

A baker’s cyst is also know as a >> popliteal cyst

What are the Symptoms of a Baker’s Cyst?

Symptoms may include visible swelling or protrusion on the back of the knee (which can be either with our without pain), constant and prolonged knee pain, and tightness at the back of the knee or simply a feeling of tenderness at the back of the knee.

If left untreated a baker’s cyst may actually rupture. A ruptured or burst baker’s cyst can cause a lot of pain and discomfort and can present very similarly as a blood clot as there will also often be calf related pain.

How is a Baker’s Cyst Diagnosed?

It is always best to visit a qualified medical professional if you suspect that you have either a baker’s cyst or feel that your baker’s cyst may have ruptured or burst.

Your doctor will likely require you to have an ultrasound which will be able to confirm a diagnosis of baker’s cyst and also importantly rule out or alert the doctor of any existence of a blood clot.

If there is an infection suspected then a blood test and maybe an aspiration of the synovial fluid may be required for testing and culturing. In some cases an x-ray and or MRI may also be required to rule out any co-exist conditions that may have contributed to the condition.

Next Page: Learn the answers to the most common questions asked about treating a baker’s cyst, including:

Testimonials

Real accounts by real people. Hear what they have to say!

Baker's cyst

Dear Sir or Madam: I purchased the OSMO patch several weeks ago and just started using them 4 days ago for my Bakers Cyst behind my knee.  I must admit I was very skeptical but I have noticed a change and less swelling in the area behind my knee.   Thank you

Karen B
Illinois, United States
Baker's cyst

Good morning

We have been using your patches for a few days now and we find them helpful.

They are draining fluid from the cyst and that is a good sign.

Regards

Andy S
QLD, Australia
Baker's cyst

Dear Toky,

Thank you for the OSMO patches.

I’m seeing a big reduction in the swelling and pain.

Thanks

Margery D
New York, United States
Baker's cyst

I used the patch for 3 days and I do a difference in the size of the cyst, how many days in a row can the patch be used? Any restrictions?

Elizabeth C.
New Jersey, United States
Baker's cyst

Hello! I wanted to write to let you know that I truly feel that a combination of your OSMO patches and infrared laser treatments on my knee have nearly cured my knee.  I had a probable torn miniscus, and had developed a baker’s cyst behind the knee from the injury.  I am a very active […]

Linda M
Michigan, United States
Baker's cyst

Dear Folks in Australia,

I have just placed my third order with you for your OSMO Patches because they do work and I am so impressed with how they work. No one here at my end has ever seen anything like your patches and I love telling people about them.

I suffer from a Baker’s Cyst and so far, this is the only thing that alleviates the swelling. As you say in your literature, it doesn’t really cure the Cyst but it does give it relief. Amazing!!!

Best wishes

Patty C
Michigan, United States
Baker's cyst

Toky,

I got my patches. I used it for 12 hrs last night.

The patch was wet and my knee feels better.

Thanks

Garrett B
Arizona, United States
Baker's cyst

Thank you for your excellent product.

First use was fantastic and after five times it had solved my problem of my swollen and stiff knee. I ordered another batch just to keep some extras on hand because from now on, I won’t do without them.

I have already recommended them to several people that have had similar problems. Thanks again for your wonderful product. I’m very grateful for the OSMO Patches.

Jeanine L
Texas, United States
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