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team playing pickelball in an outdoor court

The Increase in Pickleball Injuries

Pickleball has skyrocketed in popularity, quickly becoming among the most exciting and engaging sports across the United States and beyond. It's a game for people of all ages, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. As the sport's popularity increases, so does the number of associated injuries. Among the most common and concerning pickleball injuries is the Achilles tendon rupture.

With the increase in popularity, pickleball injuries are becoming more and more common, especially Achilles ruptures. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Achilles ruptures, why they're common in pickleball, treatment options, and, most importantly, how to prevent them.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is one of the strongest tendons in the body, allowing you to perform activities like walking, running, and jumping by facilitating foot and ankle movement. However, because the Achilles tendon is so crucial to the lower-body movement, it's also vulnerable to injury, especially during activities involving sudden starts, stops, and changes in direction—like pickleball.


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple highly specialized,  board-certified, fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons.
  • We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
  • The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving.  Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
  • We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


Why Achilles Ruptures Are Common in Pickleball

Pickleball is fun and engaging, but it requires rapid foot movements, sudden pivots, and quick bursts of acceleration, which can place significant stress on the Achilles tendon. Players are often required to move laterally across the court or quickly dash forward to reach the ball. These explosive movements can overwhelm the Achilles, especially if you aren't properly conditioned for this activity level or haven't warmed up adequately before playing.

Pickleball is particularly popular among older adults, who may not have the strength and flexibility they once did. Our tendons naturally become less flexible as we age, increasing the risk of injury during high-impact sports. In pickleball, Achilles ruptures are particularly common due to this combination of sudden movements and the demographic of players.

Signs and Symptoms of an Achilles Rupture

An Achilles rupture often occurs suddenly and is typically accompanied by a distinct popping or snapping sound, followed by intense pain in the back of your lower leg.

close up of player with ball and pickleball paddle on an outdoor court.

Some common symptoms of an Achilles rupture include:

  • A popping sensation at the back of the ankle or calf.
  • Severe pain near the heel, making it difficult to walk or bear weight.
  • Swelling or stiffness around the ankle.
  • An inability to push off your foot when walking or running.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after a sudden movement or pivot, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial for your successful recovery.


Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours


Treatment Options for Achilles Ruptures

There are two primary approaches to treating an Achilles tendon rupture: non-surgical and surgical treatments. The best option for each patient depends on factors like the severity of the rupture, the patient's age, activity level, and overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Non-surgical treatment is typically recommended for less active individuals or those with a minor Achilles tear. This approach involves immobilizing the foot with a cast or boot, which allows the tendon to heal on its own. Over time, the tendon will reattach, and physical therapy can help restore strength and flexibility. While non-surgical treatment can be effective, the recovery process is longer, and the re-injury risk may be higher than surgical repair.

Surgical Treatment

For most active individuals, surgical repair is the preferred treatment option. Surgery involves reconnecting the torn ends of the Achilles tendon. In the past, this procedure required a large incision and a long period of immobilization, often leading to muscle atrophy, stiffness, and swelling. Patients would be placed in a long leg cast for months, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation period.

Fortunately, advances in orthopedic surgery now allow for minimally invasive procedures. Surgeons can repair the Achilles tendon through small incisions, reducing the risk of complications and allowing for quicker recovery times. With this technique, patients can begin physical therapy sooner, regain mobility faster, and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness or weakness.

Returning to Pickleball After an Achilles Rupture

The good news is that most people can return to the sports and activities they love with proper treatment. Whether you opt for non-surgical or surgical treatment, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential for regaining strength and mobility.

Rehabilitation typically involves:

When you see one of our orthopaedic specialists here at POA, they will create a personalized treatment plan for your specific situation. Following your surgeon's recommendations, which may include closely working with a physical therapist, helps to ensure a full recovery. With the right care, many pickleball players can return to the court within 6 to 12 months.

Preventing Achilles Ruptures in Pickleball

While Achilles ruptures can be a serious and painful injury, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing one.

Here are some key prevention tips:

Make sure you warm up before playing pickleball. A proper warm-up is essential to reduce your risk of injury. Before playing pickleball, spend 5 to 10 minutes stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendons. Include dynamic stretches such as calf raises, ankle circles, and gentle jogging to get your muscles warm and ready for action.

Strengthen Your Calf Muscles. Building strength in your calf muscles can help take the load off your Achilles tendon. Incorporate exercises such as heel raises, resistance band exercises, and leg presses into your routine to strengthen the muscles that support the Achilles.

Gradually increase your game activity. If you're new to pickleball or haven't played in a while, ease into the game. Avoid going all out in your first few sessions. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your games to allow your body to adapt.

Wear Proper Footwear. Supportive shoes are key in protecting your Achilles tendon. Make sure your shoes have good arch support and cushioning to absorb the impact of quick stops and starts on the pickleball court.

Listen to Your Body. If you experience any pain or tightness in your Achilles, it's important that you take a break and rest. Overworking the tendon can increase your risk of injury. Make sure you pay attention to how your body feels, and don't push through discomfort!

Meet our Foot & Ankle Specialists

Pickleball is an exciting and fast-growing sport! It's important to pay attention to the injury risks associated with it, particularly Achilles ruptures. While the injury can be serious, advances in treatment—such as minimally invasive surgery—allow for faster recovery and a return to the activities you love. By taking preventative measures like warming up, strengthening your muscles, and wearing proper footwear, you can reduce your risk of injury and continue enjoying the game.

If you do experience an Achilles injury, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery. With the right care and rehabilitation, many players can return to the pickleball court stronger than ever.

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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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Understanding Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

If you are living with cubital tunnel syndrome, it can make your daily functioning uncomfortable and challenging. Imagine waking up daily with tingling sensations in your pinky and ring fingers, sometimes accompanied by sharp pain radiating from your elbow down to your hand. Pain like this causes everyday activities like typing, using your phone, or even holding a cup can become cumbersome. Many people describe feeling a "clumsy" grip or dropping things unexpectedly. This frustrating condition arises from the ulnar nerve, which runs from your shoulder to your hand, being compressed at the elbow, often resulting in persistent discomfort and limited mobility. Read on to learn more about cubital tunnel syndrome.

What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome, sometimes confused with carpal tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve, a nerve that runs along the inner side of your elbow, becomes compressed.

Several factors contribute to this compression:

  • Repetitive Elbow Flexion: Frequent bending of your elbow, such as during work or sports, can irritate your ulnar nerve.
  • Elbow Injury: Trauma to your elbow, such as fractures or dislocations, can lead to swelling or bone spurs that pinch the nerve.
  • Anatomical Factors: Some people may have a naturally narrower cubital tunnel which increases the likelihood of nerve entrapment.
  • Posture: Poor posture while sitting or sleeping can place undue stress on the elbow and nerve.
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Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome often manifest as follows:

  • A numbness or tingling in your ring and pinky fingers.
  • Weakness in your grip strength, particularly in your affected hand.
  • A feeling of clumsiness when you are handling objects.
  • Pain that radiates from your elbow to your hand, especially when your elbow is flexed for prolonged periods.

If you're experiencing hand pain but these symptoms don't match up, take a look at our comprehensive blog on numbness and tingling in your hands.


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple highly specialized,  board-certified, fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons.
  • We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
  • The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving.  Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
  • We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms vs. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

While cubital tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome share some similarities, they affect distinctly different areas and nerves. By name, it can seem easy to confuse, but once you understand each condition, you can better determine which may be causing your pain.

Below is a quick comparison of the symptoms:

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow

Pain radiates from elbow to hand

Symptoms include pinky and ring finger numbness

Symptoms may worsen with elbow flexion

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Affects the median nerve at the wrist

Pain typically radiates from wrist to hand

Symptoms include thumb and index finger numbness

Symptoms worsen with wrist flexion

What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms?

Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome arise due to compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve. When your ulnar nerve is compressed, it can lead to dysfunction in the hand, causing numbness, weakness, and pain.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Prevention can be the first line of treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome. You can help prevent it by making some easy lifestyle adjustments.

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Common lifestyle adjustments for cubital tunnel prevention may include:

Modify Activities: Reduce repetitive elbow bending and take frequent breaks if your job or activities require it.

Maintain Good Posture: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly to minimize strain on your elbows.

Use Proper Protective Gear: If you plan to participate in activities that have a risk of elbow injury, wearing a protective brace or padding can help prevent cubital tunnel syndrome.

Caring for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Once diagnosed, it is important to take the proper steps to manage and alleviate your symptoms effectively.

At-Home Treatments

  1. Rest: Allow your elbow to recover by reducing activities that exacerbate symptoms.
  2. Cold Therapy: Apply ice to your elbow for 15-20 minutes at a time to help reduce your pain and inflammation.
  3. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Brace: Wearing a brace can help keep the elbow straight and reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve.
  4. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help you manage the discomfort.

What to Avoid

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Exercises

Performing cubital tunnel syndrome exercises, gentle stretches and strengthening exercises, can help relieve tension around the ulnar nerve. Here are a few recommended exercises:

Meet our orthopaedic specialists:

princeton orthopaedic associates brand shots jersey orthopaedic surgeons 2023 16


Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

When to Seek Help from POA's Orthopaedic Surgeons

If cubital tunnel syndrome symptoms persist despite at-home care, it may be time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon.

Here are signs that indicate the need for professional intervention:

What Type of Orthopaedic Surgeon Should Be Seen?

When seeking help for cubital tunnel syndrome, look for an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in elbow, hand and wrist, and upper extremities. These specialists have the expertise to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

What Does Treatment Look Like?

Treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome may vary based on the severity of the condition:

  1. Non-Surgical Options: Initial treatments may include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and continued use of a cubital tunnel syndrome brace. A physical therapist may be able to help you with specific exercises that can improve flexibility and strength.
  2. Surgical Options: If conservative treatment approaches aren't providing you relief, surgery may be necessary to decompress the ulnar nerve. Surgical options may include:
    • Ulnar Nerve Transposition: Moving the ulnar nerve to a position less likely to be compressed.
    • Cubital Tunnel Release: Enlarging the cubital tunnel to alleviate pressure on the nerve.

When to Seek Urgent Care for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

If you experience sudden loss of sensation, severe pain, or an inability to move your fingers, seek urgent medical attention. These intense symptoms may indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate intervention. When in doubt, we recommend visiting one of our urgent care locations as soon as possible.

Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours

Although living with cubital tunnel syndrome can be a daily challenge, with the right knowledge and proactive care, you can manage your symptoms effectively. Understanding the condition, seeking timely help from the right orthopaedic specialist, and implementing preventive measures can significantly improve your quality of life.

If you are struggling with symptoms or suspect you may have cubital tunnel syndrome, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with POA's specialists. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

Join us in extending a Happy Physician Assistant Week to all of our PAs!

At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates (POA), our physician assistants (PAs) are integral members of our healthcare team, dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and quality of patient care. Collaborating closely with our physicians, our PAs conduct thorough patient assessments, perform diagnostic tests and develop personalized treatment plans. Their expertise in taking medical histories and conducting physical examinations helps ensure that all patients receive comprehensive and attentive care.

Our PAs are vital communicators, providing education, addressing patient concerns, and facilitating continuity of care. This collaborative approach not only improves patient outcomes but also streamlines workflows within our practice, ultimately benefiting both our healthcare team and the patients we serve!

national take back day locations nj

The national drug epidemic remains a serious threat to public health and safety, with devastating consequences for families and communities across the United States. At POA, we are committed to doing our part to promote the well-being of our patients and the larger community. That’s why we are proud to support the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a vital initiative aimed at reducing the misuse of prescription medications and preventing addiction before it starts.

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications prevents accidental misuse and protects our environment by keeping harmful substances out of water systems and local ecosystems. By participating in Drug Take Back Day, you contribute to the fight against drug addiction and help to make our communities safer and healthier places to live.

If you have unused, unneeded medication at home, we urge you to take action today—find a designated Drug Take Back Day location and safely dispose of any medications you no longer need. Together, we can reduce the risks of overdose, prevent drug-related violence, and build a brighter future.

Visit the Take Back Day Website to find a site near you. Every small step makes a big difference!

The following Take Back Day locations are in the closest proximity to our offices:

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel bone. It is the largest tendon in your body and is important for activities like walking, running, and jumping because it helps your foot push off the ground. The Achilles tendon is made up of two main muscle groups: the gastrocnemius and the soleus. These muscles work together to help you move and keep your ankle stable. Since the Achilles tendon is used a lot during physical activities, it can get injured or develop problems, such as Achilles tendonitis or ruptures. That’s why it’s important to take care of it and keep it flexible.

Living with Achilles Tendon Pain

Imagine waking up in the morning, swinging your feet out of bed, and feeling a sharp, persistent pain at the back of your ankle. You stand up, but each step feels like a battle, with every move reminding you that something isn’t quite right. Whether you’re an athlete or simply someone going about your regular daily activities, dealing with Achilles tendon pain can severely impact your life. Whether it's climbing stairs to walking short distances, every motion becomes a conscious, painful effort. Over time, the discomfort can worsen, which makes it difficult for you to carry out even the simplest tasks, like getting out of bed or standing for extended periods.

Although achilles tendon injuries range in severity, they are all disruptive. Understanding the causes of issues, symptoms, and treatment options can help you prevent long-term damage and help you manage the pain effectively.

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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

What Are Achilles Tendon Injuries?

The Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It transmits the force generated by your muscles to your foot and plays an essential role in walking, running, and jumping. You can imagine that the importance of this tendon also makes it vulnerable to a range of injuries due to overuse, improper footwear, and sudden stress.

The most common Achilles tendon injuries include:

Symptoms: How to Identify Achilles Tendon Issues

achilles tendon

Achilles tendon problems are characterized by pain and stiffness, but depending on the type of injury, the location and intensity of your pain can vary.

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain: The pain is usually localized to the back of the ankle, just above the heel. In the case of Achilles tendonitis, the pain may worsen during physical activity or after long periods of inactivity, such as when getting up after sitting for an extended time. In more severe cases, like a rupture, you may experience sudden, sharp pain and even hear a popping sound.
  • Swelling: Swelling around the Achilles tendon is another hallmark sign of injury. This swelling can occur with tendonitis or a tear and is often accompanied by warmth and tenderness in the affected area.
  • Stiffness: Stiffness in the morning or after resting is a common symptom, especially with Achilles tendonitis. If your condition worsens, it becomes more difficult to flex your foot or walk without discomfort.
  • Weakness: You may notice weakness in your calf muscles, making it hard to stand on your tiptoes or push off your foot while walking.

Why Does Achilles Tendon Pain Occur?

Achilles tendon pain occurs primarily due to inflammation, degeneration, or tearing of the tendon fibers. These injuries tend to form because of repetitive stress, improper biomechanics, or sudden high-impact movements.

Some causes of Achilles tendon pain:

  • Overuse: Overuse such as repetitive movements in sports, exercise, or even daily tasks can put excessive stress on the Achilles tendon. If you increase their training intensity too quickly,you are at higher risk.
  • Sudden Movements: Quick, sudden movements like jumping, pivoting, or pushing off forcefully during activities like basketball, tennis, or running can lead to tendon tears.
  • Tight Muscles: Tight calf muscles or inadequate stretching can increase strain on the tendon, making it more susceptible to injury.
  • Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper support or cushioning can misalign the feet and increase stress on the Achilles tendon.
  • Age: As we age, the Achilles tendon becomes less flexible and more prone to injury, particularly in individuals who remain active without proper conditioning.

Meet Our Sports Medicine Doctors

Preventing Achilles Tendon Injuries

Preventing Achilles tendon injuries requires a combination of good habits and awareness of your body’s limits.

Here are some effective prevention strategies:

How to Care for Achilles Tendon Injuries

If you’ve injured your Achilles tendon, it’s crucial to address it immediately to prevent further damage. Here are key steps for caring for Achilles tendon issues:

At-Home Treatments

  1. Rest: Limit activities that put a strain on the Achilles tendon. Avoid running, jumping, or engaging in high-impact sports until the pain subsides.
  2. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, multiple times daily, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
  3. Compression: Use a compression bandage. This helps to support the tendon and minimize your swelling.
  4. Elevation: Elevate your foot whenever possible to reduce swelling.
  5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

What to Avoid

Exercises for Recovery and Prevention

Incorporating specific exercises can aid in recovery and prevent future injuries:

low section of athletic woman in sportswear exercising

Heel Raises:

Stand on a step with your heels hanging off the edge. Slowly rise onto your toes, then lower your heels below the level of the step. This exercise strengthens the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

Towel Stretch:

Sit with your legs extended our in front of you and loop a towel around the ball of your foot. Gently pull the towel towards you while you keep your knee straight.

Eccentric Calf Raises:

Stand on one leg, rise onto your toes, and slowly lower yourself down. This exercise focuses on strengthening the tendon while it lengthens.

When to Seek Help from a POA Orthopaedic Surgeon

While at-home care can often alleviate mild Achilles tendon pain, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional intervention:

What Type of Orthopaedic Surgeon Should You See?

For Achilles tendon issues, you will want to consult with a sports medicine specialist or a foot and ankle specialist. These surgeons have specific expertise in treating tendon injuries and can offer tailored treatment plans based on your condition.

Medical Treatment from an Orthopaedic Surgeon

When you visit a POA orthopaedic surgeon, the treatment plan may include:

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you suspect a rupture or experience intense, sudden pain, don’t wait—seek urgent medical attention. Ruptured tendons require immediate intervention to avoid long-term disability.


Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours


Let POA Help You Out of Pain

Achilles tendon injuries can be debilitating, but with proper care and timely treatment, they are manageable. If you’re dealing with persistent Achilles tendon pain or suspect a rupture, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with one of POA’s highly trained orthopaedic surgeons. Whether you need physical therapy, non-invasive treatments, or surgical intervention, our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let Achilles tendon pain keep you from living your life—contact POA today to schedule your consultation.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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If you feel a tight, achy feeling behind your knee, it might be a Baker's cyst.

Daily life with a Baker's cyst often feels like an uninvited house guest, quietly making its presence known with discomfort or swelling behind your knee. However, understanding Baker's cyst symptoms and causes can bring you a sense of empowerment and control, time to kick that house guest out. If you have a Baker's cyst, you may notice the area feeling tight or achy, particularly after standing or walking long. Simple activities like climbing stairs, kneeling, or even fully extending your leg might become challenging. As an orthopaedic surgeon at the forefront of musculoskeletal care, I've seen how disruptive Baker's cysts can be to daily life. It's not just the physical discomfort—there's also the lingering uncertainty about what this swelling means and how to manage it.


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple highly specialized,  board-certified, fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons.
  • We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
  • The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving.  Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
  • We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


What is a Baker's Cyst?

A Baker's cyst (known as a popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind your knee. It develops when excess joint fluid—known as synovial fluid—accumulates in the popliteal bursa; this small sac serves to help cushion the knee joint. This accumulation causes swelling and, in some cases, discomfort.

The Baker's cyst is usually a symptom of an underlying issue, such as arthritis or a meniscus tear. While the cyst can vary in size, it can become large enough to restrict knee movement and cause significant pain.

What are Baker's Cyst Symptoms?

Bakers cyst symptoms can vary from person to person. Many individuals experience no symptoms at all, while others may notice:

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  • A bulging mass or lump behind the knee
  • Tightness or stiffness in the knee
  • Pain in the back of the knee, especially after standing or moving around
  • Swelling that can extend down the calf in some cases
  • Limited range of motion in the knee
  • A clicking or popping sensation with movement

In rare cases, the cyst can rupture, causing a sharp pain with swelling in your lower leg that mimics the symptoms of a blood clot; this can be a medical emergency and should be addressed immediately. Additional symptoms of a ruptured Baker's cyst may include severe pain, sudden swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

Where Do Bakers Cysts Form, and Why?

Baker's cysts form in the popliteal space at the back of the knee joint. This space contains the popliteal bursa, which is prone to filling with excess synovial fluid under certain conditions. When the knee experiences inflammation due to arthritis, injury, or other joint issues, the body naturally produces more fluid to cushion the joint. However, when there is too much fluid, it can leak into the bursa and form a cyst.

The location behind the knee makes this area particularly vulnerable to fluid buildup because of its anatomy and function in movement, especially when the knee joint is stressed or overused.

What Causes a Baker's Cyst?

Several underlying conditions can lead to the formation of a Baker's cyst:

  • Osteoarthritis: As the most common cause, this wear-and-tear condition inflames the knee joint, increasing fluid production.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammatory arthritis can cause excessive fluid to accumulate in the affected joint.
  • Meniscus tear: This injury is a tear in the cartilage of your knee and can trigger inflammation, leading to cyst development.
  • Knee injuries: Trauma or repetitive stress can inflame the knee joint, prompting fluid buildup.
  • Gout or other joint issues: Conditions that cause swelling in the knee may result in forming a Baker's cyst.

Is There a Way to Prevent a Baker's Cyst?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent a Baker's cyst, addressing the underlying causes can reduce the risk of development.

How to Care for a Baker's Cyst Once You Have One

Once you've been diagnosed with a Baker's cyst, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce discomfort:

What Not to Do When You Have a Baker's Cyst

What not to do when you have a Baker's cyst is just as important as understanding what you should do.

When to Seek Help from POA's Orthopaedic Surgeons

If your Baker's cyst persists despite home treatment, causes significant discomfort, or interferes with your daily activities, it's time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon. Seeking professional care can provide reassurance and confidence in your decision-making. At POA, our team of expert orthopaedic surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like Baker's cysts and any potential underlying causes like arthritis or meniscus tears.

What Type of Orthopaedic Specialist Should You See?

If you are looking for a doctor to help with a Baker's cyst, you'll want to see an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee conditions. At POA, our knee specialists are highly experienced in managing the symptoms and root causes of Baker's cysts, ensuring you receive personalized, comprehensive care.

Meet Our Orthopaedic Knee Specialists

What Does Treatment Look Like from a Medical Standpoint?

Treatment for a Baker's cyst often begins conservatively. In many cases, if the underlying condition causing the cyst is treated, the cyst itself will improve. Here's what medical treatment might involve:

  1. Aspiration: For aspiration of the cyst, your orthopaedic surgeon uses a needle to drain the excess fluid from the cyst, which can provide temporary relief from swelling and discomfort.
  2. Corticosteroid Injections: These anti-inflammatory injections can help reduce swelling and manage pain associated with the cyst.
  3. Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can help improve joint function, reduce fluid buildup, and manage pain.
  4. Surgery: In cases where the cyst is large, recurrent, or caused by an underlying structural issue, surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst or repair the damaged joint tissue.

Whether you need imaging, joint aspiration, or surgical intervention, our surgeons have the expertise to guide you through the best treatment options.

When to Seek Urgent Care

While Baker's cysts are rarely life-threatening, there are certain instances where we recommend seeking urgent care. If your cyst ruptures, you may experience severe pain, swelling, and bruising in your lower leg; this can be mistaken for a blood clot. If you experience this, immediately seeking medical attention is crucial to rule out the possibility of a more serious condition such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).


Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours


If You're Living With a Baker's Cyst

Living with a Baker's cyst can be frustrating, but with the proper care and treatment, it can be entirely manageable. Understanding the condition, starting to address the root causes, and seeking the expertise of an orthopaedic surgeon can make a world of difference.

If you're experiencing Baker's cyst symptoms, don't let the pain or swelling limit your daily life. The knee specialists at POA are here to provide comprehensive, personalized care and guide you through every step of your treatment plan.

Schedule an appointment today with one of POA's expert orthopaedic surgeons and take the first step toward relief!


Does a Baker's Cyst Have Anything to do With Being a Baker?

A Baker’s cyst is not named after bakers or anything related to baking! Instead, it’s named after the British surgeon William Morrant Baker, who first described the condition in the late 1800s. The cyst itself is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind the knee, often due to issues like arthritis or a meniscus tear. While it might sound like something that might happen to a baker, the name is purely a nod to the doctor’s contributions to understanding this knee issue. So, if you ever hear someone mention a Baker’s cyst, remember it's all about medical history and not about pastry!


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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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