Two options.
A clearer comparison.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

knee + hip

What happens

Blood is collected and processed to concentrate platelets, then the preparation is injected.

Onset

A reliable personal timeline cannot be predicted from the evidence reviewed here. Agree on a review date before starting.

Duration

Benefit and durability depend on the exact intervention and population. The evidence section below explains what is known.

Repeat treatment

There is no single universal PRP preparation or repeat schedule. Ask what supports the proposed course.

Recovery

Ask who provides follow-up, what symptoms need urgent attention, and what restrictions apply to you.

Cost components

Preparation, number of injections, imaging guidance, follow-up, and rehabilitation.

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 ↗