Which condition is characterized as a degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear on the joints?

Osteoarthritis is characterized as a degenerative joint disease that occurs primarily due to wear and tear on the joints. This condition is the most common form of arthritis and typically affects joints that have been subjected to repetitive stress or injury over time, including the knees, hips, spine, and hands.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. This degenerative process can also cause the formation of bone spurs and often results in inflammation as the body responds to joint damage. Understanding osteoarthritis is crucial for developing effective treatment and management strategies for affected individuals.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation and can result in joint damage, while gout is a metabolic condition linked to high levels of uric acid and results in acute inflammation, often affecting the big toe. Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive disturbances but does not involve joint degeneration. This context clarifies the distinct nature of osteoarthritis compared to these other conditions.