What is a Baker cyst? It is a fluid-filled growth behind the knee that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness. The other name for a Baker cyst is a popliteal cyst. It is important to note that this condition at times causes pain, which gets worse with activity, when fully straightening, and when bending the knee. A Baker cyst results from a problem with the knee joint, including arthritis and a cartilage tear. Both arthritis and a cartilage tear can cause the knee to produce too much fluid. This growth causes swelling and and discomfort but it can be managed by treating the underlying problem. Some of the symptoms of this growth include swelling behind the knee, knee pain, inability to fully flex the knee, and stiffness. The symptoms of a Baker cyst worsen after incraesed activity and when a patient has been standing for a long time. However, there are unique cases of this growth that causes no pain and may not even be noticed.

It is advisable for patients to seek medical attention immediately they start experincing pain and swelling behind the knee. In rare cases, the symptom of a Baker cyst may characterize blood clot in a leg vein. Synovial is a lubricating fluid that helps the leg swing smoothly and reduces friction between the moving parts of the knee. Depending with the underlying conditions, the knee can produce too much synovial fluid. This is why the fluid builds up in the back of the knee, leading to this kind of fluid-filled growth. Most often, the fluid-filled growth can be caused by inflammation of the knee joint and a knee injury. The complications associated with this condition include bursting and synovial fluid leaks into the calf region. This can cause sharp pain in the knee, swelling in the calf, and redness of the calf. MLA