After an injury or surgery, pain signals from the injured or operated area travel up to the brain, where the signals are interpreted. The experience of pain consists partly of the incoming pain signals, but is also influenced by other factors, such as previous experiences, fears, and feelings.
It is important to remember that pain is an individual experience that only the person in pain can describe. This means that the person in pain has the primary right to interpret their experience, and no one else can say that they are exaggerating or making it up.
Pain after surgery is common and stronger after major surgical procedures. Normally, the pain decreases during the first few days after an operation. For a child, it's important to explain that the pain will not last forever but will gradually lessen. Pain can vary throughout the day, and it is common for the pain to be more intense during movement and mobilization. Pain may still be present even if the child is sleeping or playing video games.
Distracting oneself from pain is a natural way to cope with a painful situation and can also be part of pain management. It is also important to be able to communicate if one is experiencing pain so that proper treatment can be provided. In other words, there’s nothing good about "being brave and not complaining about pain."