What is the result of the wear and tear on the cartilage in osteoarthritis?

The wear and tear on cartilage in osteoarthritis primarily results in joint pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the degeneration of cartilage, which serves as a cushion between the bones in a joint. As this cartilage breaks down over time, the bones can rub against each other, leading to discomfort and pain. This friction can also cause stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity or in the morning after waking.

The process does not typically result in inflammation in the way that other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, might; rather, the primary symptoms of osteoarthritis focus on the mechanical aspects of joint function, leading to reduced mobility and increased pain during movement. This degeneration does not directly lead to the swelling of lymph glands or the weakening of bones, which are unrelated consequences of the cartilage damage in osteoarthritis. Thus, the correct focus is on how the degradation of cartilage leads to the specific symptoms of joint pain and stiffness.