Age is a primary cause for knee and hip replacement surgeries. As we get older, our joints naturally become more susceptible to breakdowns in cartilage and a loss of bone density. Osteoarthritis, sometimes referred to as degenerative joint disease is an abnormal medical condition that causes deterioration, pain, swelling or stiffness of bones and joints. Although osteoarthritis affects all age groups, the condition is seen most often in the older population. This could be for various reasons. The elderly are living longer, healthier and have more active lives, sometimes causing additional stress on already aging bones, the elderly may be more likely to sustain repeated injuries causing further harm to the area, or an individual’s medical condition
