Pure Sports Medicine
Nail surgery now available at Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club
Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club is pleased to introduce nail surgery as part of our growing podiatry service, providing an effective, long-term solution for painful ingrowing toenails and involuted (highly curved) nails that repeatedly irritate the skin surrounding the nail.
While often dismissed as a minor problem, painful toenails can have a significant impact on everyday life. Walking, exercising, wearing certain shoes, and participating in sport can become uncomfortable, and in some cases, persistent nail problems can lead to infection or ongoing inflammation. For Roehampton Club Members who enjoy tennis, padel, golf, running, swimming, and fitness activities, resolving these issues can make a meaningful difference to comfort and performance.
Understanding nail surgery
Nail surgery is a minor procedure performed under local anaesthetic and is designed to permanently resolve recurring nail problems. The first step is a thorough consultation with one of our podiatrists to assess the affected nail and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the problem, the offending section of nail may be partially removed and narrowed, or the entire nail may be removed. During this discussion, we will also explain the expected recovery process and the aftercare required at home to ensure optimal healing.
The procedure itself is straightforward. Following local anaesthetic, the problematic section of nail is removed painlessly. A medical chemical called phenol is then applied to the nail bed in a process known as phenolisation. This destroys the specific nail-growing cells responsible for the problematic portion of the nail. The success rate of this treatment is exceptionally high, with more than 90% effectiveness, meaning the removed section of nail is unlikely to regrow, providing long-term resolution of the problem. Once the procedure is completed, the toe is dressed, and patients can return home to rest.
Recovery and follow-up care
At Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club, we believe that successful treatment doesn’t finish when the procedure ends. We provide ongoing support throughout the recovery process. Patients are reviewed the day after surgery to ensure everything is progressing as expected. During this appointment, we demonstrate how to care for and re-dress the toe at home and answer any questions about recovery. Because phenol has been used during the procedure, it is important to keep the toe clean and dry throughout the healing period. Recovery generally takes between six and eight weeks, although this can vary from person to person.
During this time, we recommend avoiding:
• Swimming
• High-impact sports
• Tight-fitting footwear
These activities can delay healing and increase irritation around the nail. To ensure the best possible outcome, patients are reviewed regularly, typically every one to two weeks, until healing is complete.
Expert care with Katie Widdowson
The service is led by Katie Widdowson, an experienced Podiatrist at Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club with more than a decade of clinical experience across both NHS and private practice. Katie specialises in musculoskeletal foot problems and diabetic foot health and is known for her friendly, reassuring, and patient-centred approach. Katie Widdowson – Pure Sports Medicine
Katie takes a holistic view of foot care, focusing not only on resolving symptoms but also on helping patients remain active, mobile, and pain-free. Her expertise includes clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of foot conditions, ensuring members receive comprehensive and personalised care.
For many people, painful toenails are something they simply learn to live with. However, effective treatment is available, and long-term relief may be closer than you think.
Book an appointment
If you’re struggling with an ingrowing toenail, painful curved nails, or ongoing nail discomfort, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Katie Widdowson is available to see Members at Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club for assessment and treatment.
Whether you’re looking to stay active on the courts, remain comfortable during daily activities, or simply eliminate a recurring source of pain, our podiatry team is here to help. To book an appointment, contact Pure Sports Medicine Roehampton Club or visit the Pure Sports Medicine website to arrange a consultation with Katie.