text: what is a doctor who looks at ribs called?   an orthopedic doctor treats bone injuries.  a radiologist is a doctor that interprets x-rays. a pulmonologist is a doctor that treats lung ailments.  you need to go to a family doctor if you think you have a broken rib.  you may have pneumonia and a broken rib.  a family doctor will give you a prescription for an x-ray, so he/she can see what is wrong.  a family doctor will listen to your lungs and be able to detect asthma or pneumonia.