Osteoarthritis. Coloured X-ray of the pelvis of a 52- year-old man showing areas of osteoarthritis (orange). The two femurs (upper leg bones, lower left and right) are usually separated from their sockets in the pelvis by friction-reducing cartilage. Here, osteoarthritis has caused the cartilage to wear away, causing the joint spaces to become narrowed with erosion of the ball joints in the pelvis. The joints get stiff and painful. Osteoarthritis is common in people over the age of 60 with more women than men suffering. Symptoms can be relieved with painkilling and anti- inflammatory drugs, and physiotherapy, although surgery may also be necessary.