Osteoarthritis is a common problem that affects people as they get older. It is sometimes called degenerative joint disease because it affects the joints in our body. Joints are the places where two bones meet, like the knees, hips, hands, or spine. In our joints, we have a material called cartilage that acts like a cushion, helping our bones glide smoothly over each other when we move.

When someone has osteoarthritis, the cartilage in their joints starts to break down. This can happen for many reasons, such as wear and tear over time or injury to the joint. As the cartilage gets damaged, the bones in the joint may start rubbing against each other, which can be painful. People with osteoarthritis often experience joint pain, stiffness, and limited movement.

While osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, it can also affect younger people, especially if they have had joint injuries or other underlying conditions. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. These can include medications, physical therapy exercises, lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight, and sometimes even surgery.