Thermography: Thermography: What Is It, and Why Would I Need One?

Chances are high that you’ve probably had an imaging scan at some point. An estimated 3.6 billion diagnostic imaging examinations are performed each year — and for good reason. Primary care providers, among other specialists, use diagnostic imaging scans to help diagnose conditions and even assess how well current treatments are working.

Magnetic resonating imaging (MRI), X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, mammography, and fluoroscopy are just a few of the imaging tests available.

At Aletheia Integrative, our team offers another type of imaging — thermography — in our Lincoln, Nebraska, office.

Below, Jaime Dodge, MD, explains what thermography is and why you might need such as scan.

What is thermography?

Because the average body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, you might assume that all parts of your body are also 98.6 degrees. That’s not necessarily the case. Certain conditions and diseases can cause warmer — or cooler — areas in your body.

That’s where thermography comes into the picture. It can pick up on these temperature differences.

Thermography is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses infrared technology and heat-detecting sensors to map out heat patterns on the surface of your body. The resulting thermal images provide insights into your body’s function and can potentially identify irregularities before physical symptoms arise.

How does it work?

Thermography works by detecting changes in heat and blood flow in the body. When an area is inflamed, blood flow increases, and temperature rises, which is reflected in your thermal images.

Because thermography can capture changes like these, it can provide early indicators of issues such as inflammation, injuries, or even some diseases.

Is it safe?

Unlike traditional imaging methods like X-rays or MRIs, thermography doesn’t use or emit radiation. This makes it a suitable option for those wishing to reduce their radiation exposure.

When compared to mammograms, thermography is also more comfortable, as no physical compression is needed.

6 reasons why you might need thermography

You might consider a thermography scan if:

1. You have concerns about inflammation

Inflamed areas lead to increased blood flow, and that’s exactly how thermography can identify inflammation. Areas of high inflammation can be warning signs of infections, joint problems, certain autoimmune conditions, or vascular concerns.

2. You have concerns about your breast health

Thermography is a radiation-free option for tracking changes in breast tissue over time. According to a review article published in Cureus, thermography, particularly when enhanced with AI-based systems like Thermalytix, has demonstrated up to 98% sensitivity in detecting breast malignancies, even in patients under 40 or without palpable lumps.

Some women choose routine thermography over mammography, while others combine the two. Our team can recommend additional imaging procedures based on your specific needs.

3. You have chronic pain

For chronic pain conditions, thermography can help locate areas of heightened blood flow or inflammation. Knowing which areas have the most inflammation can help our primary care team shape your treatment plan.

4. You’re an athlete

Athletes often use thermography to pinpoint injuries or monitor recovery.

But even before you have an injury, you might consider thermography. Infrared thermography can help prevent sports injuries by identifying abnormal thermal asymmetries in athletes.

Because abnormal thermal patterns can indicate regions at higher risk of injury, you can use this information to guide training, address those muscular asymmetries, and reduce your injury risk.

5. You want to establish a baseline

It provides a broad overview of your body’s thermal patterns to help detect irregularities early. Because there’s no radiation, this can be a safe imaging procedure year after year.

6. You need a diagnosis for your current symptoms

Thermography can detect various conditions, including:

Cerebrovascular disease (conditions that affect blood flow in the brain)
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
Testicular issues
Neuromuscular conditions
Toxicity
Lymphatic system disorders

Thermography alone isn’t used to diagnose conditions. Our team looks at your whole person to gain a holistic view of your health. We take into consideration your personal and family health history, your symptoms, and the results of lab work or other imaging procedures.

What to expect during your thermography scan

Regardless of why you need thermography, the process is the same. Your thermography scan is quick, comfortable, and easy. You’ll be asked to sit or stand in front of a specialized camera that captures infrared images. The process takes 30-60 minutes without any need for contact, compression, or exposure to radiation.

If you have questions about your upcoming thermography, call us at 531-333-2037. You can also request an appointment via our online booking tool.