I'm sorry too.
I think she is being disrespectful, no matter if it causes you physical pain-- it's still a hit and that is violence and violence has no place in a loving relationship.
Have you told her that her hitting makes you sad and it's embarrassing?
Maybe she doesn't realize that it's wrong since she is so much smaller than you-- you think?

I hope you get the kudos and love from her that you thirst for.

"communication road" is often the road to venture down.

best to you

fins