If you’ve ever broken your ankle and needed surgery, chances are you’ve got some metal hardware like ankle plate and screws, or sometimes pins holding things together. These pieces help stabilize the bones while they heal. But once your ankle is healed, a common question arises: Should you have the hardware removed?
Some people live comfortably with their hardware for years. Others experience pain, discomfort, or other complications that make them consider removal. So, let’s break down the pros and cons of having your ankle hardware removed.
The Case for Removal: Why You Might Want It Out?
Pain or Discomfort
One of the biggest reasons people opt for hardware removal is lingering pain. Even after the bone heals, some individuals feel irritation from the metal rubbing against tendons or soft tissue, especially if they’re slim or highly active.
Limited Mobility
Some report stiffness or reduced range of motion, particularly when the hardware is near a joint. Removing it may improve flexibility or ease daily movement.
Weather Sensitivity
Believe it or not, some people say they can feel their hardware “ache” when the weather changes. While this isn’t backed by strong scientific evidence, many patients report real-life discomfort that eases after removal.
Allergic Reactions or Infections
Although rare, some patients develop sensitivity to the metal or experience a low-grade infection around the hardware. In such cases, removal becomes a medical necessity rather than a choice.
Lifestyle Considerations
For athletes or physically active individuals, metal in the ankle can be a barrier to optimal performance. Removal may make certain movements easier or reduce the risk of long-term wear and tear.
The Flip Side: Why You Might Leave It In?
Another Surgery-More Risks
Hardware removal is still a surgical procedure, and like any surgery, it carries risks, such as infection, nerve damage, or poor wound healing. If your hardware isn’t causing issues, the saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” might apply.
Recovery Time
Though typically shorter than your initial surgery, recovery from hardware removal isn’t instant. You’ll likely need a few weeks of rest, limited weight-bearing, and physical therapy to bounce back.
Costs and Insurance
Depending on where you live and your insurance coverage, hardware removal might not be fully covered or may involve out-of-pocket expenses. This is something to consider, especially if you’re on a budget.
Unpredictable Outcomes
Not everyone who removes their hardware experiences significant relief. Sometimes, pain or discomfort persists even after removal, which can be frustrating.
Re-injury Risk
The hardware acts as internal reinforcement. Once it’s gone, your bone is on its own again. While healed bones are strong, they’re not invincible. Some people may face a slightly increased risk of fracture after removal.
So, What’s the Right Call?
There’s no universal answer. If your orthopedic implant is causing pain, limiting mobility, or affecting your lifestyle, it’s worth discussing removal with your orthopedic surgeon. They’ll likely do imaging, assess your symptoms, and weigh the pros and cons with you.
On the other hand, if you’re pain-free and functioning well, there might be little reason to go back under the knife. Many people live for decades with hardware in their bodies without any problems.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to remove ankle hardware is deeply personal. It depends on your symptoms, lifestyle, health status, and goals. The best approach? Have an open, honest conversation with your healthcare provider. Get the facts, understand your options, and choose what’s right for your body.
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