Question 1

are the plates and screws used to fix a broken ankle permanent?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Most plates and screws used to fix a broken ankle are meant to be permanent; however, there is no harm in removing the hardware if it causes problems.  Sometimes the hardware is prominent under the skin, or may interfere with motion; in those cases the hardware can be removed.  In some types of ankle fractures, a temporary  screw is inserted, and this is generally removed after a few months.

Question 2

how can you heal after removal of plates and screws of a broken ankle?

Accepted Answer

With time: Screws and plates are used to stabilize bones as they heal - like an internal cast.  After the bones are stable, typically the hardware is not necessary.

Question 3

i had screws and a plate installed after a broken ankle 7 weeks ago.  if i hit my ankle on something can the plate be dislodged?

Accepted Answer

Ankle fracture: it is highly unlikely that you could dislodge the plate in your ankle from bumping it

Question 4

screws in ankle years after an broken ankle taken out recovery time ?

Accepted Answer

Screw removal time: Usually removal of older fixation screws in the ankle is a simple procedure and recovery is fairly easy as long as your bones are healthy.  After the screws are removed, it is prudent to use a CAM walker for about 2 weeks to allow the bones to recover any strength lost from the openings that remain.  Pain after removal is usually minimal from the skin incisions.

Question 5

i had surgery for a screw to be put in to help heal my broken ankle and then had it removed, but i still have pain sometimes. any suggestions?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up: Continued pain after a broken ankle is common, often another procedure is necessary. See your surgeon for new x-rays and an exam.

Question 6

i am 1 year post op for removing a screw that was put in for a broken ankle, and i still have pain when i walk for a long time. can therapy help?

Accepted Answer

Possibly: If the initial ankle injury involved the joint surface, pain can persist for a long time.  Anytime a joint is involved in injury it is possible for post traumatic arthritis to set in.  If no joint involvement then stability and functional issues can create pain, both of which are improved with physical therapy.  Bracing and orthotics can provide functional stability and pain reduction also.

Question 7

3 years go=broken ankle & screwes sprained my akle playing tennis in auguet and it's still swollen. had me in a cast. is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Broken ankle: Sounds like you need to see an ankle specialist.

You should not be swollen at this point. 
You may need the hardware removed as well as repair of your ankle ligaments.

Question 8

telltale signs of a broken ankle?

Accepted Answer

See below: Pain, swelling, difficulty standing and walking.

Question 9

what are the sytoms of a broken ankle?

Accepted Answer

Broken ankle: pain, swelling, inability to stand, inability to walk

Question 10

can you walk on a broken ankle?

Accepted Answer

Broken Ankle: No you shouldn't walk on it if you want it to heal the correct way and not prolong the healing.

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Doctor answers about:

Broken ankle screws and plate

A member asked:

Are the plates and screws used to fix a broken ankle permanent?

A member asked:

How can you heal after removal of plates and screws of a broken ankle?

A member asked:

I had screws and a plate installed after a broken ankle 7 weeks ago. if i hit my ankle on something can the plate be dislodged?

A member asked:

Screws in ankle years after an broken ankle taken out recovery time ?

A member asked:

I had surgery for a screw to be put in to help heal my broken ankle and then had it removed, but i still have pain sometimes. any suggestions?

A member asked:

I am 1 year post op for removing a screw that was put in for a broken ankle, and i still have pain when i walk for a long time. can therapy help?

A member asked:

3 years go=broken ankle & screwes sprained my akle playing tennis in auguet and it's still swollen. had me in a cast. is this normal?

A member asked:

Telltale signs of a broken ankle?

A member asked:

What are the sytoms of a broken ankle?

A member asked:

Can you walk on a broken ankle?

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