Q Can I continue exercising if I have a Baker's cyst? Are there any movements I should avoid?
A Caution is required when performing knee overload exercises while a cyst is present, as it can enlarge the cyst or increase the risk of rupture. It is advisable to avoid movements that drastically increase knee flexion and pressure, such as squatting, lifting heavy weights, and running, and instead maintain low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and light stretching.
Detailed Answer
When a Baker's cyst is present, vigorous flexion exercises (squatting, lunges, heavy squats) can rapidly increase intra-articular pressure, posing a risk of rupturing the cyst. On the other hand, appropriate low-impact exercises strengthen the muscles around the knee, protecting the joint and improving blood circulation. Water walking, cycling, and stretching are recommended, and it is advisable to use handrails when descending stairs to reduce joint load. Perspective of Korean Medicine Clinic
In Korean medicine, appropriate movement promotes the circulation of Qi and blood to aid in the absorption of waste fluids; however, excessive exercise depletes energy and damages tendons and muscles, exacerbating the environment where waste fluids accumulate. During treatment, light walking and stretching to promote Qi and blood circulation around the knee are ideal, and the principle is to gradually increase exercise intensity after treatment. Receiving prescriptions for quadriceps and hamstring strengthening exercises in conjunction with treatment improves joint stability and can prevent cyst recurrence.
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