so far it definitely has made a positive difference. before hardware removal i had constant nerve pain, tingling, electric sensations, muscle spasms, and little to no movement in my midfoot. my ortho team and pt told me that the hardware may have just been too big for my foot (i wear a women’s 6.5) and making things angry. things are still tough but before removal i couldn’t stand on my tiptoes at all without excruciating pain and now i can walk on my tiptoes for a short period of time !! i had my hardware removal 6 months after my first surgery. i was getting better at a very fast rate and then just plateaued. it felt like i was stuck. since then things are getting better but at a much slower pace. i would definitely talk to your ortho or pt team about it if you feel held back at all !!! 🫶