Can acupuncture cure popliteal cyst?

Acupuncture for popliteal cysts may temporarily relieve symptoms, but it is difficult to achieve a radical cure. Popliteal cysts, also known as Baker's cysts, are cysts formed due to excessive accumulation of synovial fluid in the knee joint, often accompanied by arthritis or meniscus injury. Acupuncture may reduce cyst pressure and improve discomfort in the short term by loosening adhesions and stimulating local blood circulation. However, the causes of cysts are complex, and acupuncture may not change the fundamental pathology, and symptoms often recur.

For popliteal cysts and the joint problems behind them, a comprehensive treatment plan is more important. Imaging examinations can help determine the size of the cyst and the accompanying joint lesions. If the cyst is small and there is no obvious discomfort, the risk of worsening symptoms can be reduced by regular observation and adjustment of activity intensity. If there are many accompanying symptoms or the risk is high, intra-articular steroid injections, cyst fluid extraction, physical therapy, etc. may be more effective. In severe cases, surgery may need to be considered, including cyst removal or knee arthroscopy to repair underlying joint damage. Although surgery has certain risks, it can often effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.

For popliteal cysts and the joint problems behind them, a comprehensive treatment plan is more important. Imaging examinations can help determine the size of the cyst and the accompanying joint lesions. If the cyst is small and there is no obvious discomfort, the risk of worsening symptoms can be reduced by regular observation and adjustment of activity intensity. If there are many accompanying symptoms or the risk is high, intra-articular steroid injections, cyst fluid extraction, physical therapy, etc. may be more effective. In severe cases, surgery may need to be considered, including cyst removal or knee arthroscopy to repair underlying joint damage. Although surgery has certain risks, it can often effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.

For patients with existing or recurrent popliteal cysts, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling the load on the knee joint, and doing appropriate exercise such as swimming or cycling can relieve symptoms and reduce the recurrence rate. Avoid standing for long periods of time or high-intensity exercise. At the same time, if symptoms continue to worsen or are accompanied by other abnormalities in the knee joint, you should seek medical attention in time to prevent the condition from worsening or complications. Under the guidance of a professional doctor, you can develop a comprehensive treatment and prevention plan that suits you to better manage the trouble of popliteal cysts.