As more people take a proactive approach to their health, they may be curious about tools that can provide additional information about what is happening inside the body. Thermography is one such tool. We asked Chad Hawk, DC, of Leawood Thermography to explain how it works, what it can reveal and how it fits into a broader approach to health.
For readers who may be unfamiliar with it, what exactly is thermography, and how does it work?
Every warm object, including the human body, gives off infrared energy. A thermal camera detects that energy and creates a detailed map of skin temperature, sensitive to differences of a fraction of a degree. Because skin temperature can reflect changes in blood flow, inflammation, nerve activity and metabolism, these patterns can provide information about what may be happening beneath the skin.
The scan is completely passive and painless. There is no radiation, contact or injection. Patients typically rest for 10 to 15 minutes in a temperature-controlled room before images are taken from several angles.
How is thermography different from traditional imaging such as mammograms, X-rays or MRIs?
The simplest way to describe the difference is that thermography shows how the body is working, while many traditional imaging tests show how it is built. X-rays, MRIs, CT scans and ultrasounds primarily look at structure, while thermography measures heat patterns associated with circulation, inflammation and other activity.
Thermography can identify unusual hot or cold areas and differences between the left and right sides of the body. Those findings can provide another piece of information when evaluating a person's health.
What areas or health concerns can be evaluated through thermography?
Thermography can provide information related to musculoskeletal pain and injuries, inflammation, nerve-related conditions and circulation concerns. It may also be useful in monitoring diabetic feet, certain head, face and jaw concerns, skin and soft tissue changes, and the progress of treatment or recovery.
For people experiencing ongoing pain, numbness, tingling, burning or unusually cold hands and feet, thermography may help identify areas that warrant further evaluation. Athletes and active adults may also use it to monitor an injury over time.
How should readers understand the relationship between thermography and mammograms? Can thermography replace traditional breast screening?
No. Thermography does not replace mammography. The two tests measure different things. Mammography looks at the structure of breast tissue and remains the established standard for breast cancer screening. Thermography measures heat patterns that can reflect blood flow and activity. Thermography may add information to a woman's overall breast health picture, but it cannot confirm or rule out cancer on its own. It is best viewed as a complementary tool alongside recommended screenings.
Can thermography be useful as a baseline for someone who feels healthy?
Yes. A baseline scan taken when someone feels well provides a reference point for future scans. Since every person's thermal pattern is unique, changes from an individual's own baseline can be useful when tracking changes over time.
What is the most important thing for someone considering thermography to understand?
Thermography is a tool for awareness. It can help identify changes that may deserve a closer look, allowing patients and healthcare providers to ask questions and determine whether additional testing is appropriate. It is not a stand-alone diagnostic test and should be part of a complete approach that includes regular checkups and recommended screenings.
At Leawood Thermography, the focus extends beyond capturing images. The practice provides follow-up services and years of experience to help clients understand their results and determine appropriate next steps.