I’ve been thinking a lot about this thread. To be honest, I had a tendency to think like Pnigro… and for those of us that had tough parents, coaches, or time in the military, we learn to "suck it up" and press on... although I understand that when someone has pain, the only appropriate advice is to get it checked, especially in a forum.
But it does actually make more sense now, thanks to Brett and Steve’s explanations. Pain during these exercises is not normal… something is wrong with either the body (see a doc) or the technique (see an SFG)… best to get at least a medical screening/check FIRST.
FWIW, I’ve had an experience very similar what David T describes; the pain and problem varies, but I’ve had it thoroughly evaluated and the doc says there is nothing wrong with my shoulder joint. So it’s myofascial pain, trigger points, tension, imbalanced muscles, etc. Likely cause is my IT job – too many hours at the computer – plus a tendency to hold tension in the upper back and shoulders. I’ve been having success with the Yoga Tune Up massage therapy balls (squishier than lacrosse balls but firmer than tennis balls… just right!). David, I totally agree - in my case at least - “pain may be caused by over active nerves and tight muscles. Tight pecs make the back work harder to stay balanced. So loosen the pecs with the arm bar stretch and roll the trigger points with the lacrosse ball. Repeat as needed.” This is exactly the direction I’ve been headed!
But back to Aron, who is going to get checked out (right, Aron?)… just one of many possibilities, but worth mentioning… make sure your shoulder is packed throughout the getup, including the transitions, like elbow to tall sit, tall sit to tripod, and tripod to kneeling, both going up and coming down.