Surgical treatment of arthritis in the elderly.

Arthritis in the elderly can be very effectively treated by a combination of careful orthopaedic and rheumatological assessment. The overall functional assessment, and definition of the aims and likely results of surgical treatment by the team approach, involving occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers, are important for success. There are many worthwhile surgical procedures available to relieve pain, and restore mobility and independence to those affected by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.