Thermography is a highly sensitive study of the largest, most intelligent and most available organ of the body: the skin. Thermography analyses skin temperature changes on the surface of the body. The skin is a communication hub that functions as an interactive, bi-directional network of interconnections, sharing information between all systems, including the neurological, immune and endocrine functions and pathways. The skin has the information, and thermography functions as the monitor, measuring and evaluating the metabolic signals and telling the story as it happens.

The skin offers us non-verbal communications about our health that we can see with our naked eyes; color changes can indicate a lack of oxygen, trauma, exposure to chemicals, radiation, hot and cold conditions, embarrassment and stress. It also betrays signs of alcohol and tobacco abuse. These signs, along with visible skin disorders are often a sign of morbidity or advanced damage, even psychological disorders. Thermography, however, gives us a different, more telling look at the skin that we cannot see!

The skin is constantly experiencing dynamic change. Change that emits from the body as subtle voltage variations, and thermography is the interface offering another set of eyes for the invisible, unique non-verbal communication. Not only is the skin a recipient of signals, it also produces hormones that are released into circulation. Even before the patient or provider is aware, the skin is already shouting: “There are issues here!” The value of thermography is that what otherwise would be an invisible warning can only be seen with an infrared device.

The human body is miraculously programmed to maintain and heal itself as long as we don’t abuse it. Thermography, or infrared imaging with its heightened sensitivity, allows us the ability to observe the body in the process of prioritizing problem areas so we can ask the question and see the answer to: “What are you doing?” We can then investigate with focused guidance.

Whether we realize it or not, we unconsciously look at people’s skin to evaluate their general health. Now we can intentionally and uniquely observe the skin for that very purpose. So, you see, thermography is not just a device that sees heat, it is also an exciting observer of our most intelligent, revealing, dynamic and familiar organ: our skin.

Unless specifically instructed by your physician, you should wait at least three months after any form of surgery (including biopsy), the completion of chemotherapy or radiation before your study.

Avoid any natural or artificial tanning for three (3) days prior to your study.

You must not have had significant fevers (102° or more) within thirty-six hours of your study or have any level of fever on the day of your study. Refrain from a sauna, steam-room or hot/cold packs for at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to your study.

There should be no new bruising, rashes or skin irritation on the day of your study.

With your physician’s permission, please do not use the following medications for twelve hours prior to your study: niacin or niacin patch (500 milligrams or more), nitroglycerin or any migraine medication.

Avoid any tobacco use or caffeinated coffee or tea consumption for two (2) hours prior to your study. Avoid vigorous exercise, bathing or showering for one (1) hour prior to your study.

Long hair should be worn up or pulled back off your shoulders prior to your study.

For Breast Imaging: Avoid any vigorous physical stimulation, examination or compression of the breasts (self or clinical examination, ultrasound or mammogram) for at least three days prior to your study.

Do not use any skin creams, lotions, deodorants or powders that may cause inflammation on your breasts or underarms on the day of your study. We recommend women wear a blouse and pants or skirt to your study and please do not wear an underwire bra to the exam.

For Men: The “Men’s Health Study” or “Full Body Study” will require that your abdomen is revealed so it is best to wear brief underwear or a “Speedo”. You will not be required to remove your underwear.