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Baker's cyst in children
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Baker's cysts in children at HCA UK
Why choose us?
Our paediatric consultants are leaders in their field, specialising in everything from common complaints to complex conditions. We understand children can get bumps and swelling from their play and sports.
However, some swellings may need specialist diagnosis, especially to avoid swellings becoming inflamed. Our paediatric knee specialists provide expert and rapid diagnosis. Our teams are here to support you every step of the way. Your child's health and comfort are our priority.
However, some swellings may need specialist diagnosis, especially to avoid swellings becoming inflamed. Our paediatric knee specialists provide expert and rapid diagnosis. Our teams are here to support you every step of the way. Your child's health and comfort are our priority.
A Baker's cyst is a visible swelling that can form at the back of your child's knee. It occurs when fluid builds up inside the bursa, which is a small sac that works to reduce friction between your child's calf and knee joint.
Also known as popliteal cysts, Baker's cysts are quite common in boys between four and eight years old. They usually occur due to a sports injury or another kind of impact on the knee.
Also known as popliteal cysts, Baker's cysts are quite common in boys between four and eight years old. They usually occur due to a sports injury or another kind of impact on the knee.
A child with Baker's cyst often experiences no symptoms other than a lump at the back of their knee. This lump will usually go away on its own without any treatment, but in some cases, Baker's cyst can lead to other symptoms, such as:
A feeling of tightness behind the knee
A pain or ache in the calf and/or knee
Clicking or locking in the knee joint
Fluid leaking down the knee
Baker's cysts in children are often caused by excess fluid production in the knee joint, which can result from:
Knee injuries
Inflammation from conditions like juvenile arthritis
Overuse or repetitive strain from sports and physical activity
Other underlying knee problems
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Baker's cyst in children scans
Expert diagnosis, fast results
Your child's consultant will discuss their symptoms with you and examine the knee to help them diagnose Baker's cyst. They'll assess the lump's size and location and determine whether it restricts any movement. If further investigation is needed, your specialist may recommend one or some of the following scans:
Ultrasound scan
MRI scan
Baker's cyst in children treatments at HCA UK
If your child's cyst isn't causing any symptoms besides the swelling, they might not need treatment. The cyst will often go away on its own. Your consultant may recommend over-the-counter medicines or advise you on how to treat the cyst at home. For instance, an ice pack or a knee support may help. If they do require treatment, your specialist may recommend:
Draining the cyst
Physiotherapy
Surgery
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance for your child to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all of our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And we’ll give you a clear and transparent quote from the start, outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Baker's cyst in children FAQs
In many cases, no treatment is needed, and the cyst will go on its own without intervention. Treatment is only needed if the cyst causes pain, swelling or limits movement. If necessary, gentle physiotherapy and monitoring can help manage symptoms effectively.
If the cyst is small and causes no pain, light activity is usually fine and is unlikely to worsen symptoms. However, it's best for your child to avoid high-impact sports that place strain on the knee until the cyst goes away.
Yes, it's possible for a Baker's cyst to come back after treatment if the underlying cause, such as joint inflammation, isn't managed properly. Thorough treatment and physiotherapy can help prevent Baker's cyst from returning.
If your child's cyst grows larger, becomes painful, or limits movement, it's advisable to seek medical advice. Getting early diagnosis and treatment can help remedy the condition and ensure your child can get back to their active self.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.