KKT Orthopedic Spine Center and Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis, also referred to as degenerative joint disease, or spondylarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in the joints begins to wear down. Cartilage plays a critical role in cushioning the area between the joints. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, although it...