What condition can result from damage to cartilage in joints?

Osteoarthritis is a condition that arises when there is damage to the cartilage in joints. This cartilage serves as a protective cushion at the ends of bones, allowing for smooth movement. When the cartilage wears down, it can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility—characteristics central to osteoarthritis.

While rheumatoid arthritis also affects the joints, it involves an autoimmune response that primarily impacts the synovial lining rather than solely being a consequence of cartilage damage. Tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendons, and bursitis involves inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that help reduce friction in joints. Both conditions are related to joint pain but do not stem directly from cartilage deterioration like osteoarthritis does.