Which of the following statements is true regarding osteoarthritis?

The statement that osteoarthritis can occur without previous trauma is accurate because osteoarthritis is often associated with the natural wear and tear of cartilage that occurs over time. This degeneration can happen as a result of factors such as aging, genetics, and repetitive stress on joints, independent of any overt injury or trauma.

It's important to note that while trauma can exacerbate or contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, it is not a prerequisite for the condition. Many people may develop osteoarthritis in joints that have not experienced any significant injury or trauma, underscoring the multifactorial nature of this degenerative joint disease.

In contrast, the other statements about osteoarthritis do not accurately reflect its characteristics. Autoimmune factors primarily relate to other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, making that statement inaccurate. Osteoarthritis is prevalent in various age groups and is not exclusive to older adults, which makes the claim regarding age misleading. Lastly, the symptoms of osteoarthritis usually worsen with rest, as inactivity can lead to stiffness and increased pain, instead of improving. This combination of factors illustrates a more comprehensive understanding of osteoarthritis beyond a simplistic view.