Rate My Professor Damir Metljak

Damir Metljak is a certified sports and exercise podiatrist and podiatry tutor associated with Adelaide University via his prior role at the University of South Australia. He earned his Bachelor of Podiatry (B.Pod) and has built a career exclusively in sports podiatry, applying a realistic, thoughtful, and innovative methodology to address foot and lower limb pain and injuries. Since joining Wakefield Sports + Exercise Medicine Clinic in 2012, he has treated an extensive range of patients, from professional soccer players in the English Premier League and A-League to recreational athletes, including parents preparing for their first marathons. His clinical practice incorporates advanced interventions such as shockwave therapy for managing chronic painful conditions of the foot and leg.

In parallel with his clinical duties, Metljak tutors podiatry students at the University of South Australia, a role that has expanded from his practical expertise in sports medicine settings. He contributes to professional education as a guest speaker and committee member of the South Australia Sports Medicine Association. He has presented at events like the Australian Podiatry Association Professional Development Series on topics including key considerations in managing the aging runner. Additionally, he featured as a guest on the British Journal of Sports Medicine podcast in 2024, discussing the future of running shoes and orthotics, biomechanical principles, and their implications for runners—an episode ranked among the top three most listened to that year. Metljak also runs a bi-monthly rural sports and exercise podiatry clinic, improving access to specialized care in underserved areas. He achieved certification as a Sports & Exercise Podiatrist through the APODA pathway via Recognition of Prior Learning after nearly a decade of focused practice, reflecting his commitment to evidence-informed advancements in the discipline.