Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a vascular condition that occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the arms or legs. PAD is usually a result of a buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis, and can be associated with diabetes, obesity, and a history of smoking.
If your lower legs and feet are not getting enough blood flow, it can cause non-healing foot sores, resting leg pain while lying down at night, and pain in the calves, thighs, or buttocks that can make it difficult to walk, sometimes even shorter distances. Left untreated, these blockages can progress and lead to neuropathy, non-healing foot wounds, toe and limb loss, or even worse.
Symptoms of PAD
Calf, thigh, or buttock pain when walking that is relieved with rest
Leg cramps while lying down
Non-healing foot or lower leg wounds
Numbness in the feet
Sparse hair growth or loss of hair on the legs and feet
One foot is colder than the other
Risk Factors for PAD
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Renal disease
- A history of smoking
- High cholesterol
- Higher prevalence in adults over 65
If you have any of these risk factors, it is recommended that you screen for PAD every 5 years and more often with multiple factors.
Diagnosing PAD
In addition to a detailed health history and medication review, all Southern Vascular and Foot RescueTM patients with symptoms and risk factors for PAD are carefully screened using handheld Doppler ultrasound and blood pressure equipment. A toe brachial pressure index (TBI) test compares a patient’s systolic blood pressure in the toe vs their blood pressure in the arm to determine if blood flow is adequately making it to the feet. Most patients will also undergo an arterial ultrasound to determine the location and severity of any blockages. In most cases, all testing can be completed on the same day as part of the initial exam.
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment for PAD
PAD is a chronic disease and cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Depending on the advanced progression of the arterial blockage, your NP may suggest you start by modifying your diet and exercise routine. Many find that losing weight and improving health habits can be enough to improve blood flow in the body. If these options have already been explored or the condition is more advanced, your NP may recommend a more advanced treatment option, including Southern Vascular Foot RescueTM.
To learn more about the “New Normal” of Living with PAD, visit our Southern Vascular YouTube Channel. Helpful tips can be found in our “Shorts” section.
Leg & Foot Revascularization (Southern Vascular Foot Rescue)
Southern Vascular Foot RescueTM is a minimally-invasive treatment for PAD performed by Dr. Thomas Hodgkiss, or one of his specially trained Interventional Radiologists* (IR), at one of our Southern Vascular outpatient procedure facilities in Memphis, TN, Southaven, TN, Union City TN, and Fulton, KY. This advanced procedure is designed to restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), providing patients with a safe and effective alternative to more invasive surgical options.
Southern Vascular Foot Rescue is one of the most effective ways to manage PAD longer term and often leads to reduced leg pain and enhanced wound healing that can lower your risk for amputation. Most patients feel noticeably better in days. Most vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists only address blockages in the leg, and that is what makes Southern Vascular Foot Rescue so different. Southern Vascular knows that toes and feet matter, especially when they are yours.
*An interventional radiologist is a board-certified physician (MD) who has completed 6-7 years of additional training in using X-ray imaging guidance and specializes in treating a wide range of conditions, including PAD, using this high-tech equipment.
Balloons and Stents
Sometimes when the arteries are particularly clogged or weakened, our Southern Vascular doctors will use a tiny balloon to help widen it. This procedure is called angioplasty. Angioplasty is often combined with the placement of a small wire mesh tube called a stent. The stent helps keep the artery open, decreasing its chance of narrowing again. Many stents are also coated with medication (drug-eluting stents) and can assist in treating PAD in the long term.
After a Southern Vascular Foot Rescue Procedure
After an hour of observation, you will be released to go home with a trusted driver. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids following the procedure and avoid strenuous activity and lifting for the first 48-72 hours. Most patients begin to feel better in a couple of days and can return to work and regular activity within a week. Your Southern Vascular doctor or NP will follow up with you via phone following the procedure and will likely have you return to the clinic for a follow-up check-up in 1-2 weeks.
Common side effects of treatment include soreness, swelling, or mild bleeding at the wire insertion site. Less common but more serious side effects might include significant bleeding, fever, leg or foot discoloration or temperature change, significant weakness, chest pain, or shortness of breath. These are serious and require immediate medical attention.
Case Studies and Articles
Southern Vascular Foot Rescue Treatment
Treating leg pain in office with techniques a traditional pain clinic does not offer!
Thomas Hodgkiss, MD, is a board-certified interventional radiologist at Southern Vascular and Foot RescueTM in Memphis and Union City, Tennessee.
A native of Tennessee, he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia and received his medical degree at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. Afterward, he completed a fellowship program in interventional radiology at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis.
Dr. Scott Osborne
In May of 2025, Southern Vascular welcomed Dr. Scott Osborne, a highly experienced Interventional Radiologist specializing in Prostate Artery Embolization and minimally invasive vascular care. His expertise strengthens our commitment to offering advanced men’s health treatments that are both effective and accessible. With Dr. Osborne leading our PAE program, Southern Vascular patients have access to a leading-edge treatment option designed to improve urinary health, restore confidence, and minimize downtime.
John Scallions, MSN, FNP-BC
John Scallions hails from the Mississippi Delta and has always had a passion to improve the health of his community. He has been in the healthcare field for over 30 years with most of that time being focused on vascular health. He received his diploma in nursing from Baptist School of Nursing and then graduated from Union University with his Master of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner degree. John primarily sees PAD patients at the Southern Vascular clinics in Memphis and Southaven.
Casey aims to help her PAD patients manage their peripheral artery disease so they can enjoy a better quality of life with fewer symptoms and a more favorable prognosis. Casey concentrates her Southern Vascular patient care on early diagnosis, patient and advocate education, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive outpatient procedures. Outside of the clinic, you can find her spoiling her new son, Murphy, and her two fur babies, Bonnie and Watson. She is a huge sports fan and enjoys attending Grizzlies games, Mississippi State football games, and cheering for the New Orleans Saints.
Deanna Beasley MSN, FNP-BC
Deanna Beasley has worked in the healthcare field for over 17 years and has lived in Obion County for the last 5 years. Deanna believes in providing patient-centered care and enjoys getting to know her patients. Her goal is to optimize her patient’s quality of life in the least amount of pain possible through interventional pain management. Deanna primarily sees PAD patients at the Southern Vascular clinic in Union City, TN.
Testimonials
Real Stories, Real Results
Our Southern Vascular Providers
Our Southern Vascular and Foot Rescue medical staff is dedicated to our patients’ long-term outcomes. Whether you are seeking a peripheral artery disease (PAD) specialist, or advanced medical solutions to chronic pain, our interventional radiologists and vascular specialists are committed to finding the precise solution that is best for you. Our patients notice the difference in care and have generated over 1000 5-star reviews for our doctors and nursing staff.
Thomas D. Hodgkiss
M.D. & Managing Physician
Scott Osborne
M.D.
Howard R Bromley
M.D.
Kimberly Norwood
FNP-C
Elizabeth Riddle
FNP-C
Casey White
FNP-C
Ashley Pennington
FNP-C
Leslie Ary
ACNP
Deanna Beasley
MSN, FNP-BC
John Scallions
MSN, FNP-BC
Thomas D. Hodgkiss
M.D. & Managing Physician
Kimberly Norwood
FNP-C
Elizabeth Riddle
FNP-C
Leslie Ary
ACNP
Scott Osborne
M.D.
Howard R Bromley
M.D.
Kimberly Norwood
FNP-C
Elizabeth Riddle
FNP-C
Ashley Pennington
FNP-C
Specializing in the areas you need most
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
FAQs
No, PAD and neuropathy are different conditions. PAD affects blood flow to your legs and feet due to narrowed arteries, while neuropathy affects the nerves, often causing burning, tingling, or numbness. Because both can occur together, especially in people with diabetes, it’s important to have your doctor check circulation and nerve health separately to guide the right treatment.
Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) is an advanced stage of PAD where blood flow to your feet or legs is severely reduced, leading to pain or nonhealing wounds. While serious, it doesn’t automatically mean amputation. With today’s minimally invasive treatments, like those offered at Southern Vascular, many patients regain circulation, reduce pain, and heal more effectively when treated early.
The Toe-Brachial Index (TBI) test measures how well blood is reaching your toes and feet, which is especially important for people with diabetes or hard-to-heal wounds. It is a gold standard for helping your doctor pinpoint how severe your circulation issues are and decide which treatments will best improve blood flow and promote healing. The TBI is considered more informative than an ABI (Ankle Brachial Index) as it incorporates the blood flow of the foot and is a much more sensitive tool, capable of detecting significant arterial stenosis that would be otherwise missed.
Your first visit typically lasts about an hour, allowing plenty of time for a detailed review of your medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic testing, such as an ultrasound. This thorough approach helps your provider understand your circulation health and design a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. You’ll also have time to ask questions and discuss any concerns before moving forward.
Most patients will have a painless, noninvasive ultrasound to evaluate how blood is flowing through the arteries and veins in their legs. Depending on your symptoms, your provider may also perform a toe brachial index (TBI) test to measure circulation. These tests help pinpoint blockages early, so treatment can be started before symptoms worsen.
In most cases, you don’t need any special preparation for your vascular visit. It’s helpful to wear comfortable clothing, bring a list of your medications, and note any symptoms, such as leg pain, swelling, or slow-healing wounds. Coming prepared helps your provider make the most of your visit and tailor recommendations to your health and lifestyle. You are also welcome to bring with you a family member over the age of 18, or a health care advocate.
African Americans face higher rates of diabetes and peripheral artery disease (PAD), which together increase the risk of poor circulation, nerve damage, and slow-healing wounds. Limited access to early screening and specialized vascular care can make these problems worse. Regular foot checks and vascular evaluations are key to catching issues before they become serious.
Yes, consistent diabetes control can make a big difference. Keeping blood sugar levels steady protects both the nerves and the blood vessels in your legs and feet. When paired with healthy habits and regular visits to your doctor or vascular specialist, it dramatically lowers the risk of infection and amputation. Please consult with your physician before making any extreme dietary changes.
Don’t wait. Contact your healthcare provider or a vascular specialist right away. Even a small wound can turn serious quickly if circulation is poor or blood sugar is high. Getting early treatment can prevent infections, promote healing, and often save your foot or leg from further complications. Make it a habit to check your feet daily so you can catch any new cuts, blisters, or color changes before they worsen.
Yes, many people with PAD lead full, active lives with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Managing risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking can help slow disease progression and improve circulation. Staying consistent with your care plan and keeping up with regular checkups will make it easier to stay healthy and independent.
Healthy habits make a real difference. Regular, supervised walking or gentle exercise improves blood flow, while a balanced diet supports heart and vascular health. It also helps to quit smoking, manage stress, and follow your provider’s recommendations for medications or follow-up testing. Small daily efforts add up to better long-term outcomes. Ask about Southern Vascular’s Foot Rescue Walking Program.
You should contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening leg pain, numbness, or wounds that are slow to heal. Early evaluation can prevent complications and keep symptoms from progressing. Never ignore changes in your legs or feet. Timely care can help preserve your mobility and quality of life.
