Musculoskeletal disease is the most common cause of chronic pain and disability in older people. The prevalence in those over 75 is 83% in the UK. Older adults with arthritis have been reported to make significantly greater use of medical services compared with those without.Joint pathology may lead to reduced mobility, increased risk of falls, low energy, dependency and depression. Chronic pain itself is strongly associated with psychological distress and fatigue. Overall, arthritis places an enormous burden on the individual and on society. Therefore, the importance of correctly diagnosing and managing joint pain in the elderly is paramount and the GP is central to this process. [With external links to the evidence base]