Integrating Technologies: Infrared Thermography as an Evaluation Method and in Thermoguided Treatment in the Pain Clinic

Abstract

The Pain Clinic, established in early 2023, aims to provide rapid and effective assistance to patients with acute or chronic pain, preventing functional loss. Pain is a significant public health issue, being the main cause of absenteeism and medical visits. Accurate pain assessment is crucial for choosing the appropriate treatment, with innovative diagnostic methods being fundamental to this process. Infrared thermography stands out as an effective and non-invasive tool, providing information on thermal variations on the skin's surface, which can reflect inflammatory processes and physiological changes associated with pain. This study investigates the applicability of thermography in the Pain Clinic, highlighting its potential as a complementary resource in the diagnosis and treatment of acute or exacerbated chronic pain. The methodology involves a comprehensive physical-functional assessment, including the collection of clinical data and the use of infrared thermography. The results show significant improvement in pain and joint mobility, evidenced by reduced thermal asymmetry and improvement in therapeutic effectiveness. The integration of assessments into the clinic's care protocol positively impacts care quality and pain management.