Your Joint OptionsFind my next step

Medically reviewed by Charles A. DeCook, MD ·

PREPARE A BETTER CONVERSATION

Two options.
A clearer comparison.

Read practical expectations together. Then open each option for the evidence, risks, and FDA status. Similar descriptions do not mean similar effectiveness.

Changing a selection changes only this page. This comparison does not rank suitability or recommend one treatment over another.

Physical therapy & exercise

knee + hip

What happens
Assessment of movement and goals, followed by a tailored exercise plan and instruction.
Onset
Progress is assessed over repeated practice, not a single session.
Duration
An ongoing movement plan is usually part of maintaining function.
Repeat treatment
Review progress and adjust exercises rather than repeat an unchanged plan indefinitely.
Recovery
The exercise dose and any activity modifications should fit your symptoms and ability.
Cost components
Assessment, number of sessions, home program, and any equipment.
Evidence, risks & FDA status ↗

Corticosteroid injection

knee + hip

What happens
Clinical assessment and an injection of a specified corticosteroid into the joint when appropriate.
Onset
Ask when to expect the specific medicine to work and when lack of improvement should trigger review.
Duration
NICE describes short-term relief of about 2–10 weeks; response varies and some people do not benefit.
Repeat treatment
Repeated injections require review of benefit, risks, and any planned surgery.
Recovery
Ask who provides follow-up, what symptoms need urgent attention, and what restrictions apply to you.
Cost components
Consultation, medicine, injection, any imaging guidance, and follow-up.

Timing source ↗

Evidence, risks & FDA status ↗