Which type of arthritis is often described as degeneration of articular cartilage leading to joint pain?

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage, which results in joint pain and reduced mobility. This condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears away, leading to increased friction between the bones. As the protective cartilage diminishes, individuals experience stiffness, swelling, and pain in the affected joints, especially after periods of activity or at the end of the day. This makes osteoarthritis one of the most common forms of arthritis, particularly in older adults.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition affecting the lining of the joints and is characterized by systemic symptoms and potential joint deformities. Contracture refers to the permanent shortening of muscles or tendons, leading to limited movement, and does not primarily involve degeneration of cartilage. Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder that affects communication between nerves and muscles but does not involve the joint structures in the way arthritis does. Focusing specifically on the degeneration of articular cartilage as the primary mechanism makes osteoarthritis the correct response in this context.