Final answer:
Mrs. Hernandez has osteoarthritis, a joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage due to wear and tear. It leads to symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, and while incurable, treatments can manage the pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mrs. Hernandez's joint cartilage has worn away, indicating that she has osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, commonly due to wear and tear. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling and decreased range of motion. Risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include joint injury, jobs that involve physical labor, certain sports activities, and being overweight, all of which can put stress on the articular cartilage. While there is no cure for OA, various treatments can help to alleviate pain and improve joint function.