Baker's Cyst

When a Baker's cyst ruptures, the cyst fluid flows down between the calf muscles, causing extensive swelling, pain, and sometimes skin discoloration (crescent sign). DVT also causes swelling and pain in the same area, and if it progresses to a pulmonary embolism, it is life-threatening. Since the two conditions can be distinguished relatively accurately by ultrasound, emergency imaging tests must be performed first in cases of sudden calf swelling. In Korean medicine, a ruptured Baker's cyst is distinguished as a condition where phlegm flows suddenly, causing fluid to overflow in the lower extremities, whereas Deep Vaccination (DVT) is distinguished as a condition where Qi and blood are severely blocked, resulting in stagnant blood stasis. However, in clinical practice, Korean medicine treatment is always initiated only after ruling out DVT through modern medical examinations. If it is a ruptured cyst from which DVT has been ruled out, internal treatment—combining therapies to restore fluid metabolism to reduce swelling with treatments to improve Qi and blood circulation to resolve blood stasis—and external warming can aid in the absorption of cyst fluid and the alleviation of swelling. Dongjedang prioritizes the assessment of emergency situations and coordinated collaborative care as the top principles for treatment safety.