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This overview reports 31 studies, which have been performed by the author since 1989 to define the diagnostic value of thermometry and infrared imaging in rehabilitation and rheumatology. Some investigations were designed to characterise either treatment modalities, to clarify the role of temperature measurements as a method for follow-up or treatment monitoring in certain diseases. Thermal imaging has an important impact in assisting the diagnosis of many diseases. A relationship between temperature and clinical signs was established in the following disorders: epicondylitis (correlation of hot spots with pain provocated by firm pressure or resisted movement, and pressure threshold), complex regional pain syndrome (elevated temperature is paralleled by swelling and pain, temperature elevation of the hand after radius fracture after plaster removal predicts typical X-ray changes), thoracic outlet syndrome (high correlation of the region of paresthesia and low temperature readings), muscular inactivity, acute stage of Herpes zoster and Raynaud's phenomenon. Thermal imaging is of little value for the assessment of disability in patients with knee pain and of questionable value in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome or fibromyalgia. Painful tendon insertions or acupuncture points on the auricle cannot be detected by thermal imaging. Temperature signs in epicondylitis, complex regional pain syndrome and thoracic outlet can be successfully used for treatment monitoring. This might be also the case in radiotherapy of malignant breast disease. Infrared thermography, performed immediately after physical exercise can help to identify activated muscles. The value of thermal imaging for monitoring patients with lymphedema remains questionable. Temperature signs in epicondylitis, complex regional pain syndrome and thoracic outlet can be successfully used for treatment monitoring. This might be also the case in radiotherapy of malignant breast disease. Infrared thermography, performed immediately after physical exercise can help to identify activated muscles. The value of thermal imaging for monitoring patients with lymphedema remains questionable. On the other hand as a result of these studies, it became quite clear that the heat regulatory system is connected with other regulation systems of the body. Many of these influence the perfusion of vessels, which can result in temperature changes on the surface. In addition to the circulation system, pain and muscle function are the most important links to temperature regulation. Therefore any change or therapeutic modification of these systems might be seen on thermal images.