Forecast
When the Baker’s cyst is still small, most people do not have any problems. It often disappears by itself over time or after treatment of the underlying disease. If the cyst becomes larger or if pain, movement restrictions or complications occur, treatment is necessary. In the case of a chronic disease (rheumatoid arthritis, knee joint diseases) that cannot be eliminated, only the symptoms can be treated. After surgical removal of the cyst without treating the cause, it is likely that the cyst will recur.
Baker cyst in children
In children, a Baker’s cyst in the knee often occurs spontaneously and without a known cause. The child’s Baker’s cyst also often remains symptom-free and regresses spontaneously. In some cases, children feel a feeling of tension and restricted movement – in this case often after sports.
The Baker’s cyst can be palpated in the hollow of the knee when the knee is stretched or after prolonged physical activity. Of course, rheumatic diseases can also be the cause here, but this is rarely the case. Baker’s cysts also occur frequently in children with knock-knees, then also on both sides. In any case, the knee and the surrounding soft tissues should be examined to exclude possible knee joint diseases.
Prophylaxis
Prophylaxis is hardly possible in the case of a Baker’s cyst in the knee, as this is usually a concomitant of a previous inflammatory disease. If the cyst is caused by an inflammation caused by an accident or too much physical activity and sport, the knee can be spared to reduce the swelling and inflammation. In rheumatic diseases, there are recurring episodic inflammations that promote the renewed formation of a cyst. For this reason, a suitable therapy plan must be worked out with the treating physician in order to prevent the causative diseases.
