Baker's Cyst (Popliteal)

knee-pain

A Baker's cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst, is a pocket of joint fluid that forms a lump behind the knee. Often a Baker's cyst is painless, but occasionally this pocket of fluid can tear open and drain into the tissues of the lower leg, causing pain and swelling.

Symptoms include:

  • Swelling behind the knee that may increase when a person stands.
  • Discomfort behind the knee and into the upper calf, especially when the knee is completely bent or straight.

When swelling and pain increase, the best approach is to avoid activities such as squatting or kneeling. Wrapping the knee may help reduce swelling. Occasionally, fluid may be drained from the knee, and the person may be given a steroid injection. In cases of restricted mobility or persistent pain, surgery to remove the cyst may be recommended.

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Doctors

Listed below are Signature Medical Group physicians who diagnose and treat this condition.

Robert G. Medler, MD

Robert G. Medler

St. Louis, MO

  • Orthopedics
  • Foot and Ankle
  • Hip and Knee
  • Joint Replacement
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Shoulder and Elbow
  • Sports Medicine
  • Trauma

Thomas S. Samuelson, MD

Thomas S. Samuelson

Overland Park, KS

  • Orthopedics
  • Hip and Knee
  • Shoulder and Elbow
  • Sports Medicine

Robert H. Sigmund, MD

Robert H. Sigmund

St. Louis, MO

  • Orthopedics
  • Hip and Knee
  • Joint Replacement
  • Sports Medicine

Christopher W. Palmer, DO

Christopher W. Palmer

St. Louis, MO

  • Orthopedics
  • Hip and Knee
  • Joint Replacement
  • Trauma
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Locations

Signature Orthopedics Fenton

Signature Orthopedics Fenton
1011 Bowles Avenue
Suite 100
Fenton, MO 63026
Get directions
314-849-0311

Kansas City Bone & Joint Clinic

Kansas City Bone & Joint Clinic
10701 Nall Avenue
Suite 200
Overland Park, KS 66211
Get directions
913-381-5225

Kansas City Bone & Joint Clinic Lee’s Summit

Kansas City Bone & Joint Clinic Lee’s Summit
3151 NE Carnegie Drive
Suite B
Lee's Summit, MO 64064
Get directions
913-381-5225

Signature Orthopedics South County

Signature Orthopedics South County
12639 Old Tesson Road
Suites 100 and 115
St. Louis, MO 63128
Get directions
314-849-0311