Circulation problems

Three years ago I broke my leg and smashed my knee. I had reconstructive surgery, and am mainly back to normal: walking everywhere, going to Tai Chi class, etc. I still sleep with my foot up, because by the end of the day my ankle is swelling, but it is back to normal in the morning. However, the circulation is still very poor, and I am getting small areas of subcutaneous bruising, which in one case has lasted for well over a year, and a lot of thread veins, round my ankle.

 My doctor says it is only to be expected, and nothing can be done. Has anyone got any suggestions for creams or lotions? I wondered if something slightly irritant might get the circulation shifting? Or any kind of food/supplement? (I am a vegetarian)