“Baker’s knee” is a painful condition that commonly afflicts workers who have physically demanding jobs.
Also called a “Baker cyst,” this condition is caused by a buildup of excess fluid in the popliteal bursa area behind the knee, which helps cushion the knee during ordinary movements. Over time, however, repetitive movements or strenuous physical activity can lead to inflammation and swelling that causes significant pain for the afflicted worker.
What are the symptoms?
Baker’s cysts can vary in severity, but here are some common symptoms:
- Swelling or a lump behind the knee: There’s usually a visible bulge at the back of the knee, although it can range in size from fairly small to something so big that it is hard to bend your knee.
- Chronic knee pain: Pain in the knee is the primary symptom that people tend to notice, but you may feel the pain worsen when flexing your leg or bending.
- Stiffness and limited mobility: The cyst can really restrict your ability to move the afflicted knee joint, which can make it very hard for you to climb steps or a ladder, bend, kneel or do any number of usual activities.
- Clicking or “locking” in the knee: You may experience the feeling that your knee is clicking or locking when you move after sitting or standing for a while.
When left untreated, this condition can actually lead to permanent damage to the knee joint. Early intervention with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, rest and compression can help significantly, as can physical therapy. This often requires the affected sufferer to take some time off work, however – and workers’ compensation should be there to help.
Employers can be reluctant to admit that repetitive motion injuries are connected to someone’s job, so you may encounter some resistance to your claim. If that happens, it’s wise to consider the appropriate legal guidance so that you can get your benefits approved.