Bone and joint degeneration can start in middle age, but it is most common in people older than 65. Other risk factors include: Chronic stress on your joints from activities such as sports and some jobs. Family history of osteoarthritis.

How does the skeleton change with age?

Bones become more brittle and may break more easily. Overall height decreases, mainly because the trunk and spine shorten. Breakdown of the joints may lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and deformity. Joint changes affect almost all older people.

What age do bones start to deteriorate?

From about age 25 to age 50, bone density tends to stay stable with equal amounts of bone formation and bone breakdown. After age 50, bone breakdown (resorption) outpaces bone formation and bone loss often accelerates, particularly at the time of menopause.