Final answer:
Degenerative disc disease and related conditions such as Osteoarthritis (OA) are largely caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage due to aging, mechanical stress, genetic factors, and inflammation. They can result in symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, and in extreme cases may necessitate joint replacement surgery. Osteoporosis can also contribute to spinal issues like kyphosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question involves understanding the causes of degenerative disc disease and related joint ailments. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease that stems from the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone. The main symptoms that accompany OA are joint pain and stiffness, and it often affects joints at the ends of fingers, bases of thumbs, neck, lower back, hips, and knees.
OA and other musculoskeletal diseases can be quite debilitating, with arthritis being one of the most common disorders that can impair movement and mobility. The condition can be a result of aging, damage to the articular cartilage, inflammation, or other factors such as autoimmune diseases or infections. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.
Osteoporosis is another age-related condition that causes loss of bone density and can lead to kyphosis, which is excessive curvature of the spine, specifically affecting the thoracic region.