Dr Merridy Lithgow
Podiatrist

PhD, MSc, B.Pod (Hons)

Dr Merridy Lithgow is a podiatrist with advanced expertise in sports rehabilitation, lower limb biomechanics, and movement-based therapies. She holds a Bachelor of Podiatry with First Class Honours from the University of South Australia, a Master’s degree in Clinical Biomechanics from the University of Brighton, and a PhD from La Trobe University, where her research focused on lower limb biomechanics in people with foot osteoarthritis.

Merridy thrives on managing complex biomechanical presentations, from acute running-related injuries and midfoot pain to chronic lower limb conditions. Her clinical focus is heavily geared toward athletic resilience and function. She has a strong interest in translating the latest biomechanics research into highly individualised treatment strategies, combining detailed movement assessments with targeted rehabilitation, strength work, and load management.

With a deep passion for running biomechanics and injury management, Merridy refined her gait analysis and performance-focused rehabilitation skills at a specialised running clinic. She also brings extensive experience in custom orthotic prescription and performance footwear. Her international background includes training under a world-leading orthotist in New York for complex case management, as well as designing custom orthotics for ski and snowboard boots in Canada to optimise load distribution for winter sports.

Alongside her clinical work, Merridy is an experienced educator and active researcher. She has presented to Sports Medicine Australia on how to translate research into clinical practice, and frequently translates her findings into practical applications. She has published research in leading journals on foot structure, plantar loading, and movement patterns in people with foot osteoarthritis, and taught podiatric biomechanics across Central Queensland University, Western Sydney University, and La Trobe University.

This dual clinical and research background uniquely positions Merridy within the field. It equips her with the highest level of biomechanical knowledge to seamlessly bridge the gap between academic evidence and everyday clinical practice, ensuring she delivers care that is both cutting-edge and highly individualised to each patient’s goals.

More information about Merridy’s work can be found at www.merridylithgow.com