Thermography in Your Wellness Toolbox –

“Ther…thermo…what?” is a common reaction when people hear that Shawn Seuferer, owner of Thermography of Wisconsin, is a medical thermographer. Understanding a few key terms makes thermography simple to understand and easy to see as a valuable part of a proactive wellness plan.

Thermology is the science of studying infrared images of the body. Thermography uses a specialized infrared camera to capture heat patterns on the skin’s surface. These images, called thermograms, show temperature variations that may indicate changes in physiology. The colors on the scan don’t represent disease or blood flow—they simply help distinguish temperature differences. After the scan, a trained medical doctor (a thermologist) interprets the images and provides a written report with recommendations.

It’s important to clarify that thermography is not a diagnostic test and does not detect or diagnose cancer. It cannot identify tumors or structural changes. Instead, it detects functional changes, such as inflammation, vascular patterns, lymphatic congestion, or hormonal influences. For breast health, thermography works best as an adjunct tool—used alongside mammograms, physical exams, and self-exams to create a more complete picture.

Many women carry understandable fear around breast health. Shawn encourages a holistic, empowered approach—supporting mind, body, and spirit. A positive mindset, healthy nutrition, restorative sleep, and regular movement all help support breast wellness. Thermography fits naturally into this integrative approach because it is non-invasive, radiation-free, and completely pain-free.

To ensure accurate results, patients should avoid stimulating treatments such as chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, or heavy sun exposure for three days prior. On the day of the scan, avoid deodorant, lotions, shaving, and strenuous exercise. Because thermography is sensitive to hormonal shifts, patients should wait at least three months after breastfeeding, fertility treatments, or any breast surgery.

Each woman’s thermogram is unique—like a thumbprint. New patients need a second scan in 3 months to establish a baseline. Once stability is confirmed, annual scans are typically recommended.

Thermography of Wisconsin serves patients throughout Central and Northern Wisconsin and Minnesota. Shawn Seuferer is a Certified Clinical Thermographer and a member of the American College of Clinical Thermology (ACCT).