That's what my vet did. She ruled out osteo saying it was arthritis. Finally I saw a different vet and insisted on x-rays, only to learn that it was osteo. I strongly urge everybody to insist on x-rays. In Phene's case it didn't make a difference as far as treatment and prognosis, but I knew what I was working with and knew when to let him go.
ETA: Phene never limped or broke any limbs. He appeared to be in discomfort and started to lose his appetite.