I have pain in my feet and lower legs feel stiff and hard. There is poor sensation. I am taking Myelogen PG 75 on doctor’s advice for a long time. If I discontinue it, I feel uncomfortable. Please advise if Myelogen can be continued. — CL Sehgal (89), JalandharPain in the feet with stiffness, hardness and reduced sensation in the lower legs is commonly seen in lumbar spine, disc-related nerve compression. Get checked for peripheral neuropathy, especially if you are diabetic, as both conditions can coexist. Myelogen PG 75 can be continued if it is providing relief, but long-term use should be monitored. I would advise a detailed clinical evaluation, blood sugar assessment, MRI of the lumbar spine, and if required, nerve conduction studies for accurate diagnosis.— Dr Pradeep Sharma, Neurologist, Livasa Hospital, MohaliI have pain in my knees, off and on. The doctor says it’s age-related. At 82, I have a physically active lifestyle. I regularly do exercises recommended by the doctor. Please suggest how I can manage my pain and whether any supplements are needed. — M Singh, (82) Mandi (HP)At this age, intermittent knee pain is common due to degenerative osteoarthritis, characterised by progressive articular cartilage thinning. Physiotherapy is necessary as periarticular muscle conditioning reduces joint loading. Exercises include static and dynamic quadriceps and hamstring strengthening and knee range-of-motion along with cycling, etc. A healthy weight and avoiding prolonged squatting or sitting cross legged are beneficial. You can use topical NSAIDs creams with cautious short-term oral NSAIDs on doctor’s advice. Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may be considered for persistent symptoms. Vitamin D and calcium is advisable, if deficient. Please have a regular orthopaedic follow-up— Dr Rajnish Garg, Orthopaedician, DMCH, LudhianaMy 2.5 year-old keeps getting frequent cough and cold. Is this normal immune development or a sign of low immunity that needs intervention? — Mona Singh (32), BathindaIt is common for kids under 5 to have 6–8 episodes of coughs and colds per year as their immune system is still developing. Frequent mild infections that resolve with routine care are okay. But, if illnesses are severe, require repeated hospitalisation, prolonged antibiotics, poor weight gain, or delayed recovery, evaluation for underlying issues may be needed. Persistent concerns should be discussed with a paediatrician.— Dr Ashish Agarwal, Paediatrician, Panchkula


