We know when we are absorbed in interesting activities the pain is forgotten or becomes remote. We lose awareness of some physical sensations as we might might be doing right now. Perhaps we have lost some awarness of the pressure on our buttocks or maybe we are not experiencing any sensations from our feet or arms. Boxers are well known for absorbing punishment, yet often report a failure to notice pain during a contest. Likely they are focused on fighting, defending, their opponent's leads and parries.
People appear to respond in different ways to pain.
People have the same injuries will not always respond in the same manner. Other people may not share the same labels or focus for their pain experience. What one person calls excruciating and horrible another person might label pressure and bothersome. Their beliefs influence the intensity and duration of their pain. Folks experiencing anxiety about their pain, keep dragging their attention back to their pain and thus heighten it.