Shock. An apt descriptor, jolting their body into acting without other input.

This is an order they don't know how to follow.

His hand remains on their shoulder.

The Hollow Knight forces both shoulders to become less tense. This is the best settling that can be done without fully lying prone. They will if he requests it, through words or pushing them further, but as of yet, they continue to stay as they are.

The question is clearer. Yes. Several things hurt. It appears many will forever.