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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Recurring Swelling Behind Knee, Pain And Stiff Legs And Knee Aggrevated With Exercise. History Of Working Out On Eiiptical Machine. Suggest

I was working out on an eiiptical machine last week and did not stretch afterwards. the next day my left quad was so tight, I could barely bend my leg and since then I have had recurring swelling behind my left knee that is causing me pain and stiffness to my leg, front and back of knee as well. What is this and what should I do? It seems to get aggravated when I exercise or sit for a period of time.
Wed, 31 Jul 2013
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

Based upon the description, I am of the opinion that you have BAKER'S CYST.

This bakers cyst or popliteal cyst is the most common cystic swelling occuring behind the knee which causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind the knee. It usually results secondary to either arthritis or a cartilage tear in the knee joint.

The general guidelines of management is as follows -

* MEDICATION - An intra articular injection of cortisone will reduce inflammation and relieves pain. It may not always prevent the recurrence of the cyst.

* DRAINAGE OF FLUID - An ultrasound guided needle aspiration is at times useful in decompressing the cyst.

* PHYSICAL THERAPY - in the form of Ice compression, elastic compression bandage will help in reducing pain and swelling.

* EXCISION OF THE CYST - is recommended if the cyst is recurring and is affecting the joint movement.

Consult an orthosurgeon and follow the advice accordingly.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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Recurring Swelling Behind Knee, Pain And Stiff Legs And Knee Aggrevated With Exercise. History Of Working Out On Eiiptical Machine. Suggest

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. Based upon the description, I am of the opinion that you have BAKER S CYST. This bakers cyst or popliteal cyst is the most common cystic swelling occuring behind the knee which causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind the knee. It usually results secondary to either arthritis or a cartilage tear in the knee joint. The general guidelines of management is as follows - * MEDICATION - An intra articular injection of cortisone will reduce inflammation and relieves pain. It may not always prevent the recurrence of the cyst. * DRAINAGE OF FLUID - An ultrasound guided needle aspiration is at times useful in decompressing the cyst. * PHYSICAL THERAPY - in the form of Ice compression, elastic compression bandage will help in reducing pain and swelling. * EXCISION OF THE CYST - is recommended if the cyst is recurring and is affecting the joint movement. Consult an orthosurgeon and follow the advice accordingly. Hope this information is helpful. Good day