

Hypertonic dextrose injection for the treatment of a Baker's cyst.Leg swelling can be a common problem and it typically refers to any swelling of any part of the legs, including the feet, ankles, thighs and calves. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. We link primary sources - including studies, scientific references, and statistics - within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations.

If the knee produces too much synovial fluid, there can be an accumulation of it in the popliteal bursa. Between the popliteal bursa – a pouch at the back of the knee – and the knee joint, there is a valve-like system that regulates the flow of synovial fluid. There are various pouches, called bursae, in each knee, through which the synovial fluid circulates. The tendons and cartilage need lubrication, which they get from synovial fluid – it helps the legs move smoothly and reduces friction. The knee is made of bone, tendons, and cartilage. The surgeon inspects and treats problems inside a joint using an arthroscope, a thin, flexible fiber-optic tube which is inserted into the joint through a small incision.īaker’s cysts affect more women than men, probably because women develop rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis more often.Īlthough people of any age may be affected, most patients are over 40 years. Arthroscopy: Extensive knee joint damage, possibly due to a physical injury or some underlying condition, may mean that the cyst must be surgically removed and the joint repaired.These exercises can help reduce symptoms as well as maintaining the function of the knee. Physical therapy: A qualified physical therapist may recommend some gentle strengthening and range-of-motion exercise for the knee muscles.Corticosteroid injection: This reduces inflammation and relieves pain, but it does not reduce the risk of recurrence.If the swelling is particularly large and painful, further treatment may be required: In most cases, if there is an underlying cause, the doctor will treat the cause rather than the cyst itself. Ibuprofen, a common over the counter medication, is an NSAID. NSAIDs ( non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – medications with analgesic (pain-reducing) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects can be useful in treating Baker’s cysts. Compression bandages are available for purchase online. Compression bandages: These help support the knee.Crutches: These take the weight off the knee joint and help the patient walk without pain.
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A doctor may advise how long the patient should rest, as well as suggesting alternative forms of exercise. Resting: The knee needs to rest it must not be exposed to irritation.Make sure there is no direct contact with ice on skin. Icepacks: This can be useful in reducing inflammation.Some self-care techniques may be effective, such as: A Baker’s cyst will commonly resolve on its own, and no treatment is required.
