Are braces effective at preventing shoulder dislocations
The braces can help to prevent the shoulder from being placed into a position in which a dislocation is possible. While they cannot prevent all shoulder dislocations, these braces can reduce the overall incidence of shoulder dislocations in athletes.
Can the braces be worn during competition?
This is the real problem, and why bracing plays a very small role in the treatment and prevention of shoulder dislocations. Athletes who participate in sports often have difficulty wearing the brace and competing effectively. Braces are especially cumbersome in athletes who overhead function (such as throwing) is critical for their effectiveness. Therefore, most athletes are unable to return to their sport while wearing a shoulder dislocation brace.
