Do plates or screws need to be removed after foot and ankle surgery?

Doctor’s answer

Not always. Hardware removal depends on pain, soft-tissue irritation, restricted motion, fracture healing, infection risk, and implant location. Asymptomatic hardware can usually be observed. If it affects shoes, sport, or tendon gliding, a doctor should assess the timing and risks of removal.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.