Question: I have recently started to have problems with pain in my lower leg and knee. My question is am I better off elevating my foot and resting my legs or should I exercise to increase blood flow? I am 74 years old and in good health. I am still working in the construction industry.

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Exercise and mobilization will assure continued muscle and vascular fitness, as long as you have no fixed arterial obstruction or injury. Inactivity is one factor that may fuel the advancement of arthritic and degenerative disease in muscles and joint tissues.

We generally reserve elevation and short-term rest for acute injury to bone, muscle, or tendon to reduce swelling. But if you have had no trauma or swelling, rest assured you do not have a serious condition such as tumor or a venous obstruction by a clot.

You should see your doctor for a checkup, anyway. Simple vascular ultrasound testing is painless, non-invasive, inexpensive, is generally covered by insurance, and can be done in an office setting without any needles or IVs.

Once your diagnosis is clear, treatment can be recommended and you can be pain free very soon.