Is there a role for meditation in treating rheumatoid arthritis?
The objective of the study was to assess the effect of a meditation training program, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), which combines mindfulness meditation and yoga.
First, the details.
- 63 patients were randomly assigned to MBSR as an 8-week course plus a 4-month maintenance program, or to a wait list control group.
- All participants received usual care from their rheumatologists.
And, the results based on patient-completed questionnaires.
- At 2 months there were no significant differences between the groups.
- At 6 months the MBSR group experienced significant improvement in psychological distress and well-being.
- There was a 35% reduction in psychological distress among those treated.
- MBSR had no impact on RA disease activity.
The bottom line?
It sounds like MBSR helps you cope if you’re willing to dedicate the time.
10/16/07 21:04 JR