NorthStar Massage and Wellness offers thermography, an early detection tool for health issues and breast cancer
What is thermography and how does it work?
Thermography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses infrared technology to detect and capture the heat patterns the human body emits. It works by converting infrared radiation into visual images, allowing a practitioner to identify temperature variations and anomalies that may indicate underlying health conditions.
What are the applications of thermography in wellness?
Thermography has various applications in wellness. It can be used for early detection of health issues, monitoring and managing chronic conditions, and screening for breast cancer. Additionally, thermography plays a role in preventive healthcare by assessing and providing insights into overall health and wellness. The FDA has cleared the following to use thermography as an adjunctive screening method: breast cancer, thyroid pathology, cerebrovascular health, and neuromuscular pathology. Other promising and emerging areas deserving of consideration include infection, fibrocystic breast disease, lymphatic stagnation, breast health, and skin cancer.
- Early Detection of Health Issues
Thermography is like having a crystal ball that can predict potential health issues before they become a full-blown spectacle. Detecting abnormal heat patterns can help identify areas of concern early on, giving people a head start in seeking proper medical attention and preventive measures. Thermography has been known to detect cancer as many as eight to ten years before other screening measures.
- Monitoring and Managing Chronic Conditions
Living with chronic conditions can be like playing a never-ending game of “What’s Going on Inside Me?” Thermography steps in as a handy sidekick, allowing practitioners to monitor changes in patients’ bodies over time. Keeping an eye on a person’s thermal patterns helps us manage chronic conditions more effectively and adjust treatment strategies as needed.
- Breast Thermography
Breast Thermography is a non-invasive and painless way to screen for breast cancer without radiation or compression of the breast. It uses state-of-the-art medical infrared technology to assess heat in the breast. Comparative exams create a baseline for monitoring breast health based on individual thermal patterns and changes.
Are there any limitations or considerations with thermography?
While thermography is a valuable tool, it is important to acknowledge its limitations and considerations. Factors such as environmental conditions, body temperature fluctuations, and operator expertise can impact the accuracy of thermographic imaging. Thermography should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods and should not replace traditional medical evaluations.
Is thermography safe and suitable for everyone?
Yes, thermography is a safe and non-invasive procedure that can be used for people of all ages. It does not involve any radiation or contact with the body, making it suitable for those who may have contraindications for other imaging techniques. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the appropriateness of thermography for individual situations.
Why choose NorthStar Massage & Wellness for thermography?
Lea Houston, LMT, owner of NorthStar Massage & Wellness partners with Breast Thermography International (BTI), which offers 30 years of experience in thermographic imaging. BTI has state-of-the-art FDA 510K-cleared equipment that offers a fast turnaround time for results.
Lea has been a licensed massage therapist for 20 years and added thermography to her practice in 2022.
She said, “It is so important to have healthy, non-invasive, radiation-free, informative, and affordable options for women and men of all ages. I am always looking for ways to help people understand their bodies and see the early signs your body is telling you. Thermography is one more perfect piece of the puzzle that allows us to see the body and our health as a whole. Prevention is key.”
For more information about Thermography please contact Lea Houston, LMT at NorthStar Massage and Wellness, which is at 222 S. Summit Avenue, Suite 1 in Prescott. Call 907.723.9466.