Teesquare,
I too, have had multiple shoulder surgeries, even had my right AC joint completely removed.
I prefer to not use a brake unless absolutely necessary if you feel the need, go right ahead.
I guess my experience doesn't match yours, I apologise for that.
I will keep shooting unbraked rifles, as in my discipline over here, F-class Open, brakes aren't allowed on the range. I use 300WM in my heavy rifle, and 264WM in my light rifle. Also 22-250AI & 6.5X47 in short coarse.
Cheers.