(Video Transcript)
Is Exercise good for a Baker’s Cyst?
Swelling at the back of the knee is often a sign of a Baker’s Cyst.
A Baker’s cyst will often cause pain and discomfort, resulting in a restriction of the activities that you would have previously been able to do.
Often people are incorrectly advised to start an exercise regime to strengthen the area in the hope to relieve the symptoms.
Exercising with a Baker’s Cyst is not recommended. Unfortunately, exercise only places more stress on the injury, further aggravating the condition.
It is however important to move around normally and not to be bedridden. Listen to your body and ease off from any activity that is causing pain or places stress on the knees.
This includes activities that require kneeling, such as gardening.
Avoid any type of repetitive stress whenever possible. Even light repetitive movements if done continually over a period of time will cause irritation.
Ongoing irritation due to exercise or other repetitive stress may lead to a chronic Baker’s Cyst and the possible formation of fibrous scar tissue.
The bottom line… if you enjoy exercise, sports or participate in any physical activity, we suggest that you take a break from these activities until the condition resolves.
Once the Baker’s Cyst has resolved it may be helpful to rebuild any lost muscle mass and strength. If there is muscle loss after the condition resolves, then guidance from a qualified physiotherapist may be helpful.
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?
