Hip pain is very common, and it has many causes. Often, hip pain is benign and something you can manage at home, but it could be something more serious. The most common causes of hip pain are: Osteoarthritis – this causes tissue inflammation and cartilage damage, leading to stiffness and discomfort Obesity, which can put undue stress on the hip joints Muscle wear and tear Overexercising Poor posture or gait Less common causes of hip pain include: Abnormally shaped hip bones Infection Fractures Cartilage tears Reduced blood flow Hip socket problems A hip ultrasound can pick up these abnormalities so doctors can give you the right treatment for your condition.