Had metal plate removed from right ankle Nov 2010 hoping removal and clean up would solve problems, if not at least a MRI could be done in the future hopefully revealing any problems. Unfortunately march 2012 I slipped and had severe back problems which eventually led approx 12 weeks later to emergency surgery on back to trim disc and relieve pain. This was unsuccessful and I returned 7 days later for same op. Since op every 6 to 8 weeks I have experienced sudden pain which is initially like a sprained ankle for the first hour but quickly to severe pain and I cannot walk or put any weight on foot as though I had a broken foot. This would normally be the right ankle which was the one with the plate. It switches on and off like a tap fine on a sunday, cannot walk Monday, Tuesday not too bad and back to the gy on wednesday. It is very difficult to understand. I believe this is all related to sciatic nerve and on the last two occasions it has been the left foot as though I had a ruptured achilles., again it last for a day or two. Recently more back pain and stiffness with a lot of crunching. Any help advice greatly appreciated, this is seriously changing my life. I am 51 years of age and dont want this for the rest of my life. regards garry watson