Which condition is also referred to as degenerative joint disease?

Osteoarthritis is commonly referred to as degenerative joint disease because it involves the gradual deterioration of cartilage, the protective tissue at the ends of bones. This degeneration leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joints. Unlike other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, osteoarthritis is primarily characterized by the wear and tear on the joints that occurs over time, making it more prevalent in older adults. This condition often results from a combination of aging, joint injury, and repetitive stress on the joints, which contributes to its classification as a degenerative condition.

Understanding osteoarthritis as degenerative joint disease highlights its focus on the physical changes within the joint structure, contrasting with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, which involve immune system responses.