Podiatrist

Dr Merridy Lithgow is a podiatrist with advanced expertise in lower limb biomechanics and movement-based rehabilitation. 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 works in private practice, with a strong focus on complex biomechanical presentations, including midfoot pain, running-related injuries, and chronic lower limb conditions. She has a particular interest in translating biomechanics research into practical, individualised treatment strategies, combining detailed movement assessment with targeted rehabilitation and load management.

She has extensive experience in custom orthotic prescription and fabrication, having worked alongside leading clinicians internationally, including in New York where she trained under a world-leading orthotist managing complex cases. She also spent time in Canada designing custom orthotics for ski and snowboard boots, further refining her understanding of load distribution and performance-based footwear.

Merridy has a strong interest in running biomechanics and injury management. She refined her running assessment and retraining skills at The Running Room, a specialised running clinic, where she developed expertise in gait analysis, load management, and performance-focused rehabilitation.

Her clinical approach is centred on improving movement and long-term resilience, combining targeted exercise, strength work, load management, and orthotic intervention where appropriate.

Alongside her clinical work, Merridy is an experienced educator and researcher. She has taught podiatric biomechanics across Central Queensland University, Western Sydney University, and La Trobe University, which has contributed to a broad and well-rounded clinical skillset across all areas of podiatry. This allows her to confidently manage both complex biomechanical cases and routine foot care within everyday practice.

She has published research in leading journals on foot structure, plantar loading, and movement patterns in people with foot osteoarthritis. Her dual clinical and research background allows her to deliver evidence-based care that is both practical and highly individualised.

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