The writing during those conditions I would expect takes your mind off of the pains or feelings.
At times - but most of the time it lets me give them space to feel them fully. Does that make sense? Normally I am too busy to acknowledge everything, but writing slows life down.
It is during the adverse conditions we learn who we are and what we are made of.
I should collect some of my stories I have put on the chain, as I think many are around this topic.
It makes sense to me, I just sometimes need something to do so I don't dwell on issues.
And yes with all your post you would have a good set of references to build a good story along.