Selected orthopedic problems in the elderly

The elderly are the fastest growing segment of the population. Degenerative changes that occur in the musculoskeletal system present themselves in var ious ways within the elderly population. The purpose of this article will b e to discuss the pathophysiology and treatment of some of the frequently en countered orthopedic problems in older adults, including rotator cuff probl ems, meniscal injuries, spinal stenosis, arthoplasty, and selected fracture s.