How to deal with Popliteal Cysts or Baker's Cysts

There is a condition, called Baker’s Cysts that can cause swelling of the knee and leg.

According to the Mayo Clinic Baker's Cysts are most often caused by a cartilage tear or arthritis. Most people don’t know they have this fluid build up, and often it goes un-diagnosed. The fluid build up in the knee causes swelling and tightness in the back of the knee.

For more information on signs, symptoms, causes, when to seek medical advice, screening, and diagnosis, complications, treatment, and self-care visit the Mayo Clinic Web page on Baker’s cyst. They basically recommend taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin, resting, icing, using a compression sleeve, and elevating the leg.

Maine Warmers Knee Pack

Reducing the swelling is one method of dealing with Baker’s cysts. Elevating the leg,  reducing physical activity, and wrapping the knee in an ice pack -- not harsh ice -- will help reduce swelling.

For gentle ice packs that wrap around the knee check out Maine Warmers’ Gentle Ice Packs, especially their knee pack which comes with a bag of whole corn (not popping corn) or it can hold a bag of frozen peas that you buy at the store for colder therapy. Frozen whole corn is not harsh like ice cubes and can be microwaved as well. Neck warmers also wrap around the knee and can be used repeatedly for ice or can be microwaved for soothing heat.