Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, happens when the protective cartilage in your joints wears down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in commonly affected joints such as the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
While aging is a common risk factor, injuries, repetitive stress, and family history can also contribute. As the condition progresses, inflammation and cartilage loss may lead to chronic pain and changes in joint function that affect daily life.