Dealing with Physical Pain

[Eddie]

This technique works by transforming how your brain interprets signals from your nervous system: what was once perceived as an alarm, can become a more gentle signal.

Method: Focus internally on the pain, and allow the pain to wash over you in waves, like the ocean, while remaining perfectly still and centered emotionally.  "Relaxed" is somewhat of a misnomer for the state involved, but more composed as opposed to panicky, frantic or desperate to do something about it.  

One way to achieve this calm and centered state is to allow yourself to become gently curious about the quality of the pain, as opposed to emotionally intense about it.  (Clearly, having a sound foundation in a mindfulness practice will be helpful).

Doing this in 15 minute intervals, then getting up and moving around and focusing on something else is advised.

I suffer from chronic arthritis pain in my right knee (and less frequently, in other joints).  Sometimes it keeps me awake all night.  I've tried the above technique myself (it occurred independently to me, to try just the thing you recommend).  Trust me, it does not work.  

Things that do help (temporary relief, but it's better than nothing):
Sunbathing (I have much less discomfort in the summer)
Yoga and other stretching
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Practicing the Egyptian Postures of Power

Conventional pharmaceutical medicines don't help; they all have deleterious side effects, and cause more harm than good.