Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Thermography

We’ve compiled this information to answer questions about medical thermal imaging. If you have a question not answered below, please feel free to contact us.

Thermography is a safe, non-invasive technology that captures heat patterns on the skin’s surface. These heat patterns reflect blood flow and physiological activity, offering insights into your body’s health. It’s a valuable tool for proactive health monitoring and identifying areas of inflammation or vascular activity.
Thermography uses a high-grade infrared camera to measure temperature variations on the surface of the skin. These variations are displayed as a thermal image, where different colors represent different temperatures differentials. This allows us to observe heat patterns and identify irregularities that may indicate underlying health issues.
Yes, thermography is completely safe. It is non-invasive, safe, and does not require physical contact with your body. It’s suitable for people of all ages and can be used repeatedly without any risk.

Thermography is a versatile tool that can provide insights into various aspects of health, including:

  • Breast health monitoring
  • Identifying areas of inflammation or injury
  • Assessing vascular activity and circulation
  • Monitoring progress in healing or wellness plans

It’s especially useful for individuals seeking a proactive approach to their health.

Thermography offers a gentle and safe method to monitor breast health over time. It detects heat patterns and vascular changes that may reflect physiological imbalances or areas of concern, helping you stay informed about your breast health. Unlike traditional methods, thermography has no discomfort, making it an excellent choice for ongoing monitoring.

During your session:

  • You’ll spend time acclimating to the room’s temperature in a comfortable, private setting.
  • The certified Medical Thermographer will use a high resolution infrared camera to take thermal images of the area(s) of interest.
  • The entire process is quick, painless, and contact-free.

You’ll receive a detailed report of your images, which can be shared with your healthcare provider for further analysis if needed.

The frequency depends on your health goals and what you’re monitoring. Many people start with an initial baseline scan, followed by a 3 – 6 month follow up comparison report. It is then recommended that you have a regular imaging every 6-12 months to track changes over time. Your thermographer can help you determine the best schedule for your needs.
The accuracy and clarity of your thermography results depend on the quality of the infrared camera used. Our Med-Hot ultra-high-resolution FLIR camera systems and patented software provide detailed thermal images that allow subtle changes in heat patterns to be identified. Using a professional-grade system ensures the most reliable and actionable results for your health.
Our Thermography equipment received FDA 510K clearance, signifying it meets established safety and effectiveness criteria for medical devices. Medical Thermography in general is specifically cleared for use as a supportive adjunctive tool to be used alongside other medical evaluations.

It’s worth noting that the FDA uses the term “cleared” rather than “approved” when referring to devices like thermographic equipment. This distinction highlights that thermography has been evaluated and deemed appropriate for its intended purpose, but the terminology differs from that used for pharmaceuticals or medical procedures.
Thermal images are typically analyzed by trained professionals with expertise in thermographic imaging. We ensure that every report is reviewed by experts, like MDs, DOs, or Licensed Naturopathic Physicians trained to interpret the thermal patterns and variances or providing you with detailed insights.

Yes, there are a few simple guidelines to follow before your session to ensure the most accurate results:

  • Avoid using lotions, deodorants, or powders on the areas being imaged.
  • Refrain from sunbathing or using tanning beds 24 hours before your session.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise or hot baths immediately before the appointment.

Your technician will provide you with a full list of preparation steps when you schedule your appointment.

Most insurance plans do not currently cover thermography. However, many clients find the investment worthwhile for the valuable health insights it provides. Flexible payment options may be available—check with your provider for details.
Scheduling a session is easy! Contact us via phone, email, or our online booking system. We’ll guide you through the process and answer any additional questions you may have.