I found this conversation helpful because I was back to see my surgeon's physician assistant today.
It is important to keep in mind that we each have different life journeys.

I will stick with what I previously said: "A total systems approach-with focus on individual subsystems is the best approach." My caveat: I was taught to not complain about my pain, emotional and physical. It can lead to a disconnect to understanding where pain in your body is actually coming from - which it is important to understand cause and not symptom. Become better at reading your body and you will help those who can understand better!
BTW, I highly recommend you have humor, maybe a few human treats, to share with your team (caregivers) as they will enjoy the conversation, teamwork-which includes you, and the human-ness! There is so much more that brings us together than separates us!