ICE vs HEAT – Which is best for Baker’s Cyst pain?

There is so much conflicting information out there regarding how best to treat a Baker’s Cyst.

Some people and websites suggest using ice, while others suggest using heat for relieving Baker’s Cyst pain.

So… when is it OK to use ice for a Baker’s Cyst?

Ice should be used during the first 24-72 hours after the onset of the condition.

This is to minimize the severity of the initial swelling.

Ice can also be applied if you accidentally knock or irritate the area.

While applying ice to the knee may reduce pain by numbing the area… it is unlikely to have any further benefit in reducing the remaining swelling after the initial 72 hrs.

Instead it may actually delay the recovery, as it reduces blood flow to the area.

So…When should you use heat for treating a Baker’s Cyst?

Assuming there is no infection present. Heat, then becomes the preferred option after the first 72 hrs has passed.

Heat promotes blood flow, which is necessary for the healing process.

However, it is IMPORTANT to remember…

Heat should never be used if an infection is present or suspected!

Instead you should always see a doctor if an infection is present or suspected!

For essential advice to avoid further injury and great tips on how to naturally reduce swelling & pain due to a Baker’s cyst, be sure to explore our website as well as the rest of this video series.

What is a Baker’s Cyst?
What causes a Baker’s Cyst?
What are the signs and symptoms of a Baker’s Cyst?
How is a Baker’s Cyst diagnosed?
Is exercise good for a Baker’s Cyst?
Is Massage OK to relieve the swelling and pain from a Baker’s Cyst?
Ice or Heat for Baker’s Cyst pain?
How to treat a Baker’s Cyst?

Real testimonials by real people

Read their stories

Shoulder problems

Hi Toky, I just received my parcel yesterday Wed Dec. 29th and after following the directions how to apply I put one on and it’s easing the pain in my shoulder. It seems that it’s working for me and I have to be careful to watch the food I am eating. I am quite please […]

Ankle (Achilles Bursitis)

About 2 years ago I developed bursitis on my right ankle which was extremely painful. I tried traditional physio, ultrasound, laser, and stretching to no avail.

I discovered the OSMO Patch website and decided to keep an open mind and try the OSMO Patch.

After all those months of continuous pain, much to my surprise, I experienced a significant improvement such that I can now walk several kilometers, and am not in constant pain all day long! I have now ordered a 3rd set of Patches, and am sure these will end the problem entirely.

Trochanteric Bursitis

Hello Jordan,

Thank you for your informative reply, I shall take notice of the hints and tips in your e-mail and will apply them during the treatment of my wife’s Trochanteric Bursitis.

It may interest you to know of the progress with the OSMO patches. Days 1 to 4 a small reduction in the swelling in the thigh. Days 4 to 7 a further reduction in swelling but no reduction in pain. Days 8 to 9 swelling almost gone and a big reduction in pain. We now await delivery of our second box of patches and hope the improvement continues.

Thanks for your assistance.

Fluid on knee

I had a sac of fluid to the upper-right of my knee. Quite large. I continued to pursue my daily routine which consisted of morning workouts at the gym including ‘spin’ class. Needless to say, I aggravated the whole situation. My leg became swollen, and quite painful. It was only after the swelling went down did I notice the sac.

Upon searching myself for possible causes, I came across your site and since it was a ‘natural’ remedy, I didn’t think it would do any harm. I’ve had good results with other natural products, so why not give it a try.

After three days on the patch, I found that the sac pretty much dissolved. Was I going to heal anyway? Maybe. Was it the combination of natural healing and the stimulation of the patch? Maybe. In any event, I am now sac free.

Shoulder bursa

Hello Toky, Thanks Toky. Last lot sure made a difference. I was able to not be awakened by an aching bursa during the night. One night before; was so bad that I had to sit in a lounge chair and ice my shoulder regularly through the night Told the doctor about the patches and twice […]

Baker's cyst

Ok, I have an arthritic knee from playing American football and having an operation when I was 18. Going to a doctor to have it drained would cost me well over $220. I know that I will need to get this knee replaced sometime in the near future and you can only do this one time, so it is in my best interest to find a way to prolong the knee replacement.

I tried the OSMO Patch about 1-2 years ago, thinking it may be a gimmick, and it was no gimmick because it works. The pressure on my knee is lessened by morning and I can move around a lot better. I’m health conscious, watch what I eat, go to the gym 3-4 times a week and of course I work. It is important to be open to alternatives instead of the ‘give me a pill’ attitude that most of the public has. As individuals, we have to realize that we, not someone else, are the most interested in our own health.

Thank you

General Bursitis

I bought OSMO product hoping it would work for my bursitis. I am pleased to say it did I am very satisfied. Could you send me any info you have of other products. Please. Thank you

Tendonitis or bursitis

I have been prescribed XXXXXXXX 750mg for my shoulder. Tendonitis or bursitis, my Doctor said. The anti inflammatory meds were working well until I moved some furniture for my wife and then the pain came right back with a vengeance I put a patch on my shoulder last night and was amazed when I removed it […]