How to Recognize a Baker's Cyst

A Baker's cyst -- a fluid-filled area behind the knee -- can sneak up on anyone without warning, but it is often associated with osteoarthritis or cartilage tears. The symptoms are often annoying, because the pain and stiffness can lead you to limit your activities, but usually not unbearable. Most Baker's cysts disappear on their own; others need to be aspirated or surgically removed.

Instructions

• 1

  Check for symptoms and signs of a Baker's cyst. These include pain in the knee, swelling on the back of the knee, stiffness when extending or bending your leg, or a bump on the back of the knee that feels like a water balloon.

• 2

  Compare your normal knee with the knee that you suspect has a Baker's cyst. Often, even if the swelling is too mild to notice when you look at it alone, it will be noticeable when you compare knees.

• 3

  Notice if your symptoms feel worse after exercising, bending or walking. Baker's cysts often ache or produce a feeling of pressure after activity.

• 4

  Make an appointment with your physician, who can provide a definitive diagnosis, and can also help determine the underlying cause. It is important to differentiate between a blood clot and a Baker's cyst. These conditions share similar signs and symptoms. A blot clot is very serious and requires different treatment.