Question

What causes a Baker's cyst?

Answer 1

The causes of a Baker's cyst is an overproduction of synovial fluid in your knee joint.

The overproduction of synovial fluid in your knee joint that causes a Baker's cyst is often a result of underlying joint damage, like arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or even tears to the cartilage like meniscus injuries.

The resulting excess fluid build up fills a bursa behind your knee and causes swelling.

The most common causes of a Baker's cyst is arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, which leads to chronic inflammation and increased fluid buildup.

Knee injuries like tears in your meniscus or cartilage or other structural knee injuries can also lead to the formation of a Baker's cyst.

Inflammation, from any condition that causes persistent joint swelling or synovitis can lead to formation of a Baker's cyst.

And even inflammatory conditions like Gout can also result in the development of a Baker's cyst.

Your knee joint products a fluid called synovial fluid that is used to lubricate your joints and reduce friction.

But when the joint is inflamed or damaged, it produces too much of the synovial fluid.

The excess fluid that is produced is forced into a small, fluid filled sac called a bursa, located behind your knee, which results in the bulge that is called a Baker's cyst.

Risk factors for a Baker's cyst include being over the age of 40 and being a woman.

Adults over the age of 40 are more commonly affected by Baker's cysts although anyone of any age can get them.

And women are also more affected and more likely to get Baker's cysts than men.

Baker's cysts can be painful and also limit your movement, although they are usually nothing to worry about.

The best treatment for a Baker's cyst is to address the underlying knee issue, like a meniscus tear or arthritis, instead of just treating the Baker's cyst itself.

The most effective treatments for a Baker's cyst is the RICE method, or Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation, as well as taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen and even doing physical therapy to strengthen your knee.

Most Baker's cysts go away without surgery, although they can be persistent and cause pain and may require ultrasound guided drainage or corticosteroid injections.