A Baker's cyst can cause a feeling of tightness behind your knee, even during running. A Baker's cyst forms at the back of your knee and can lead to a visible bulge. Treatment includes rest, ice, elevation and compression and helps manage discomfort associated with the cyst. If tightness and pain persist, consult your physician.
Baker's Cyst and Causes
A Baker's cyst, or popliteal cyst, is an excessive amount of joint fluid that builds up behind the knee. The fluid and cyst can come from either your knee joint capsule or from a bursa sac, which is normally a small sac of fluid located behind your knees. Baker's cysts often occur in conjunction with knee arthritis, meniscus tears and other knee injuries, according to New York University Langone Medical Center.
Diagnosis
During a physical exam, your physician can determine if the tightness behind your knee is in fact caused by a Baker's cyst. For example, your physician can shine a penlight through your cyst to determine if it is fluid filled, also known as trans-illumination. An MRI can also aid in the diagnosis of a Baker's cyst as well as a meniscus tear, which could have led to the development of the cyst. X-rays may be used to determine if you suffer from knee arthritis as well.
Treatment
Treatment should not only alleviate the symptoms of your Baker's cyst, but also treat any underlying causes such as arthritis. Rest, ice, elevate and wear a compression wrap or elastic bandage to reduce swelling caused by the excessive fluid. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or corticosteroid injections may be used to further decrease inflammation and pain. For painful large cysts, aspiration or drainage of the cyst, or surgery to remove it may be necessary. However, there is always a risk of infection with aspiration and surgery. If you have arthritis or a meniscus tear, physical therapy and surgery may help further alleviate any tightness behind your knee.
Exercise Modifications
Running can cause more irritation and could lead to a larger cyst and delayed recovery. Therefore, temporarily stop running until swelling and tightness subside . To maintain your cardiovascular fitness, walk or water walk, which are easier on your knee joints. Upper body strength exercises and core exercises may also be performed, as long as you are pain-free. Avoid high-impact activities, biking and swimming, which require repetitive knee flexion, leading to further irritation, knee stiffness and pain.
Prevention
The best way to prevent a Baker's cyst is to prevent knee injuries and knee arthritis. Therefore, maintain a healthy weight, stay physically active and perform strength and flexibility exercises regularly for your legs. If you already have arthritis or a meniscus tear, manage symptoms and get proper treatment to possibly reduce your risk of a Baker's cyst. Besides addressing underlying knee problems, there is no other way to prevent a Baker's cyst.
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