Video Games.
Playing games on my computer has been one of the best things for coping with my pain...ok, maybe NOT coping would be more appropriate but it sure does work.
I've also learned that more than a few of us Kickers play video games on a regular basis. What surprised me is that it isn't just folks like me who grew up in arcades but older folks as well.
There is a study underway right now (I assume it is still underway) at the University of British Columbia that is trying to address this exact issue, what role do video games play in pain management? There seems to be quite a bit of evidence out there that computer games can have an "analgesic" effect, according to my doctor.
With me, a compelling game that absorbs my mind fully can make me forget a lot of my pain but as JimmyWA pointed out in another thread, the time spent at the keyboard is likely contributing to some of that pain as well.
Reading doesn't cut it. I love to read but for me, the act of reading does not engage my mind nearly as much as an interactive video game - perhaps I'm more of a visually stimulated person? Reading is something I do even though I know it is going to cause me more pain both from the various positions I try to sit/lay/lean, etc. and the very act of holding the actual book itself. I'm going to start looking for some sort of portable book stand that I can get.
I caught a glimpse of someone else mentioning puzzles. Getting some huge puzzles to work at would be a good thing. I think I have the time and patience for this now.
Model building wouldn't work for me, the tiny parts would drive me insane.
Gotta run, the dog is driving me nuts...great question though
Chris
