What Is a Podiatrist? What They Do When To See One - Cleveland Clinic A podiatrist is a provider who specializes in caring for your feet, ankles and lower legs An orthopedist (also spelled orthopaedist) is a specialist who treats injuries and diseases that affect your musculoskeletal system (your bones, muscles, joints and soft tissues) Orthopedists are surgeons, but they can also prescribe and administer