Apparatus and method for real-time full field thermal imaging of the sole of the foot.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a liquid crystal thermography (LCT) system for assessment of the lower extremities, preferably the sole of the feet. The invention is particularly relevant for use in the healthcare sector, such as, within GP clinics and specialised podiatric medicine centres. It would also find application in research labs to further understanding of foot dysfunction and in particular the diabetic foot with neuropathy. The important advantage of the present system over the prior art is the capability to obtain real time full field images during dynamic changes in skin temperature. Furthermore the system is compatible with existing sensory testing modalities used to assess foot function preferably for diabetic patients with loss of sensation (diabetic neuropathy).