Pope Benedict XVI, who has begun to use a mobile platform instead of walking down the central aisle of St. Peter’s Basilica, has been diagnosed with a degenerative joint disease.

The Daily Telegraph is reporting that the 84 year-old pontiff has arthrosis, a condition that results when the cartilage that protects bones in a joint begins to break down. The condition can result in pain, stiffness and inflammation, particularly at night or after activity.

Andrea Tornielli, an Italian journalist with LaStampa newspaper who is considered to be one of the country’s most authoritative Vatican observers, Pope Benedict’s condition is affecting him in his ankles, knees and hips. 

However, the pope is not letting the condition slow him down. Besides his planned three-day trip to Benin, West Africa, next week, he is also considering a trip to Cuba and Mexico next year.

Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi brushed aside the reports of arthrosis, and said that the Pope was in good health for a man of his age.

“He is currently studying the possibility of going to Mexico and Cuba in the Spring, which I think is rather more important,” he told the Telegraph. “His state of health is fine and he is able to carry out his duties.”

The Pope has been in good health since assuming the pontificate in 2005 and has maintained a busy travel schedule.

His most serious health concern occurred in 1991 when, as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, he suffered a mild stroke which temporarily affected his vision.

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The photo of Pope Benedict using the mobile platform is by Reuters.