There's also evidence that meditation moderates the immune response, says Richard Kradin, MD, an immunologist and psychiatrist at Harvard University. Meditation may affect the nervous and vascular systems, as well as the immune system, which in turn would affect joint function and inflammation. But we need more and better research. There are many unanswered questions. Not all people benefit from meditation.
Researchers say many techniques work.
No one is better than another. And while meditation doesn't appear to have any side effects, several rheumatologists were concerned some people may put too much faith in it. There is also concern people will give up conventional treatments in favor of meditation. Don Goldenberg, MD, a rheumatologist in Wellesley, Mass., who co-authored a study on meditation and fibromyalgia, says meditation can improve symptoms. However, he cautions against thinking you can meditate your illness away.