Editor’s Note: We spoke with Yevette Sutter, RN, CCT, with Sandhill Medical Thermography located at the Sandhill Healing Center in Port Charlotte at 24901 Sandhill Blvd. Call 941-235-8929 and learn more at SHH.ABMP.com.
Yevette, what is Medical Thermography?
It’s a proven screening and detection tool for revealing the effects of inflammation and inflammatory processes. The inflammation shows up as variations of color corresponding with temperature patterns on the surface of the skin. Having this information is helpful because inflammation is a reliable precursor for various conditions even if there are no current symptoms. Our patients can share the results with their clinician for further evaluation.
What’s the basic technology?
We use a cutting edge FDA-registered high-definition infrared camera (known as FLIR) that can target any part of the body with precision including the upper torso, back, head, neck, abdomen, arms, or legs. The colored patterns produced by the images (a thermogram) reveal active inflammation or angiogenesis, which is the increased blood supply associated with various conditions including diseases. Medical Thermography is non-invasive and completely safe with no radiation. The results can be helpful for patients and their physicians. It’s also helpful for tracking changes in the body at the cellular level.
What are some of the medical conditions that Thermography can help to detect?
The list includes arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, autoimmune disease, thyroid issues, breast cancer, neurological dysfunction, back issues including herniated discs, dental issues like TMJ and gum disease, sinus issues, carpel tunnel syndrome, digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease, all forms of infections, and other chronic health conditions.
How is this different than Mammograms?
Mammograms look at anatomical changes in the breast to detect masses or lumps in the breast tissue. Thermograms look at vascular changes and the subtle physiologic changes that accompany breast pathology. Unlike Mammograms, Thermography does not emit any radiation since it’s just an image. Thermography is approved by the FDA as an adjunct screening tool when used in conjunction with mammography and clinical breast examinations.
What would you like to share about the other services available at Sandhill Healing Center?
We are an integrative medical center offering a diverse range of Eastern and Western therapies to enhance natural healing. That includes Acupuncture, Therapeutic Massage Therapy, Medical Thermography, and Chiropractic Care. Our website has a more complete list of all of our healing services. Dr. Cecelia “Cheech” Hill, DOM, AP, CCT, is the owner of the center.
