Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is the most common type of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage covering the end of the bones slowly wears away, causing the bones to begin rubbing against each other and resulting in friction that leads to pain, swelling, loss of mobility and often stiffness. Osteoarthritis often affects the hands, knees, hips, spine and feet and can occur as cartilage breaks down with old age.
Attribution: Straight Talk Foundation