Final answer:
A podiatrist is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the care and treatment of the foot and ankle. The specialty of podiatry covers structures of the ankle and foot, including diagnosis and treatment of various conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A licensed professional who specializes in the care of the feet is known as a podiatrist. When considering specialties that might focus on studying all of the structures of the ankle and foot, the field of podiatry would be the most relevant. Podiatrists are medical experts trained to diagnose and treat conditions related to the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.
The study of podiatry includes a comprehensive understanding of biomechanics, orthopedics, and dermatology as these pertain to the foot and ankle. Treatments can range from non-invasive shoe inserts and orthotics to surgical procedures targeting ailments such as bunions, heel spurs, and various forms of arthritis. For those experiencing foot pain or complications from diseases like diabetes, a podiatrist is often an integral part of their healthcare team.