Full Body Thermal Imaging
A Full Body Thermal Imaging Scan is a non-invasive imaging study that records temperature patterns across the surface of the body. Unlike X-ray, CT, MRI, or ultrasound, thermal imaging evaluates physiology rather than anatomy. The thermologist evaluates patterns of warmth and cooling that may reflect changes in circulation, nervous system activity, and other physiologic processes.
A Full Body Thermal Imaging Scan records temperature patterns throughout the body during a single appointment. It may be appropriate for individuals experiencing symptoms involving more than one area of the body or for those who wish to establish baseline images for future comparison.
At Midwest Thermography, all thermal imaging studies are performed using a high-resolution computerized infrared imaging system in a carefully controlled environment. Every thermal imaging study is performed following standardized patient preparation protocols established by the American Academy of Thermology and the International Academy of Clinical Thermology.
Every study is independently interpreted by Dr. Robert Kane, a board-certified Clinical Thermologist with decades of experience interpreting medical thermal imaging studies.
What Areas Are Included?
A Full Body Thermal Imaging Scan records thermal images of multiple regions of the body, including the:
- Head and Neck
- Thyroid Region
- Jaw and Facial Muscles
- Shoulders
- Arms, Wrists, and Hands
- Upper, Middle, and Lower Back
- Hips and Pelvis
- Legs, Knees, Ankles, and Feet
The thermologist evaluates thermal patterns that may be associated with:
- Muscle irritation and tension
- Joint inflammation
- Regional circulation
- Peripheral nerve irritation
- Soft tissue inflammation
- Mechanical stress
- Trigger points
- Sympathetic nervous system activity
- Previous injury or surgical sites
- Other thermal findings that may warrant clinical correlation
Because thermal imaging records temperature patterns at the surface of the body, it does not directly evaluate internal organs.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your appointment begins with a review of your health history followed by a 15-minute acclimation period to allow your skin temperature to adjust to the controlled imaging environment.
Thermal images are then obtained from multiple views using a high-resolution computerized infrared imaging system. The imaging procedure is completely non-contact, radiation-free, and painless.
After your appointment, your images are forwarded to Dr. Robert Kane for interpretation. Once the report is completed, it is returned to Midwest Thermography and provided to you. At your request, a copy may also be sent to the doctor or health care provider of your choice.
Who May Benefit from Full Body Thermal Imaging?
A Full Body Thermal Imaging Scan may be appropriate for individuals who are experiencing symptoms involving multiple areas of the body or who would like a Full Body Thermal Imaging Scan as part of their overall health evaluation.
Thermal imaging may be used to establish baseline images, monitor changes over time, and provide additional physiologic information that may complement other clinical findings.
Understanding Your Thermal Imaging Report
Your thermal imaging report should be considered together with your health history, physical examination, and other clinical findings. Thermal imaging is not a stand-alone imaging study and cannot diagnose or rule out the presence of injury, infection, or disease.
When appropriate, your doctor may recommend additional evaluation based on your symptoms, physical examination, and the findings contained in your thermal imaging report.