What type of pain would further confirm suspicion of thrombophlebitis?

The selected response is correct because it describes pain that is typical of thrombophlebitis. In this condition, inflammation of a vein can lead to symptoms including pain that is often exacerbated by physical activity and relieved by rest. When a person experiences calf pain upon exertion, which is alleviated by resting and elevating the leg, it aligns with the typical presentation of venous stasis associated with thrombophlebitis. This suggests that there may be significant blood flow issues in the veins, leading to discomfort during activity.

Understanding the context of the other options further highlights why this choice is the most indicative of thrombophlebitis. For instance, pain that awakens a person from a sound sleep could suggest a more serious condition such as deep vein thrombosis rather than the typical discomfort associated with thrombophlebitis. Similarly, calf pain that stops when standing in one place or pain that improves with stretching and exercise might indicate other musculoskeletal issues or intermittent claudication—conditions that are less specific to thrombophlebitis. Therefore, the characteristics of pain described in the selected response provide a clearer link to venous inflammation and thrombosis, supporting the suspicion of thrombophlebitis more effectively than the other options