When appropriate, Dr. Minutillo offers injections as a treatment option for degenerative joint disease, where the hip or knee becomes painful and arthritic, and physical therapy or medications have not been effective.   There are different types of injections which help joint pain in different ways.  Corticosteroid injections:  These work to reduce inflammation in the joint, thereby decreasing pain. Gel injections:  Also known as viscosupplementation, these injections work to mimic the natural lubricating fluid that is normally created by joint, thereby reducing friction.  Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections:  These are believed to regenerate damaged cartilage (the smooth surface of the joint that erodes with arthritis) and other tissues.