Which of the following statements describes the primary cause of osteoarthritis?

The primary cause of osteoarthritis is best described by the understanding that it originates predominantly from joint destruction due to excessive use and is influenced by both intrinsic factors (such as age, obesity, and genetic predisposition) and environmental factors (such as previous injuries or repetitive stress on the joints). Over time, this excessive use leads to the wear and tear of cartilage that cushions the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and a reduction in overall mobility.

While genetic factors certainly play a role in predisposing individuals to osteoarthritis, they do not singularly explain the degenerative process as comprehensively as the combined impact of use-related stressors do. Infection and acute injuries can contribute to joint issues, but they are not the fundamental causes of osteoarthritis. Instead, osteoarthritis primarily stems from chronic mechanical stress and degradation, manifesting predominantly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, which align with the description provided in option B.