Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Baker's cyst causes
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Causes
Causes
A Baker’s cyst is caused by swelling in the knee. The swelling is due to an increase in synovial fluid – the fluid that lubricates the knee joint. When pressure builds up, fluid bulges into the back of the knee.
Baker’s cyst commonly occurs with:
- A tear in the meniscal cartilage of the knee
- Knee arthritis (in older adults)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Other knee problems
Reference
Reference
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]