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Osteoarthritis Causes
What causes osteoarthritis?
In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that cushions and protects your joints breaks down and wears away. When it breaks down, the bones rub together and cause damage and pain. Experts don't know why this breakdown in cartilage happens.
In some cases, arthritis is caused by other conditions that damage cartilage. These conditions include:
- Inherited diseases that cause a buildup of iron, calcium, or copper in the body.
- Nervous system disorders that result in the loss of nerve function.
- Diseases that you are born with (congenital diseases) that cause an imbalance in the joints.
- Bone disorders that affect the joints.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.
Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.