How much pain does it cause to have a Baker's cyst behind the knee?

In many cases, a Baker's cyst does not cause pain, though some people may suffer from slight pain behind the knee and into the upper calf, states WebMD. People who suffer from pain caused by Baker's cysts usually experience the pain when fully bending or straightening the affected knee.

Doctors may treat underlying conditions such as arthritis to reduce the pain and swelling associated with Baker's cysts, notes WebMD. Doctors may drain a Baker's cyst or remove it through surgery in rare cases when the cyst causes a lot of pain. People who experience pain from Baker's cysts can treat it at home with rest and by taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen to reduce pain and swelling.