A barbell row focuses on strengthening the various muscles in your back, depending on the form and technique you use. In addition to putting
large amounts of weight on your back, performing a barbell row also puts stress on your shoulder and neck muscles. Shoulder pains after a barbell row could be a result of improper form or simply overextending yourself during a workout.
Technique
If you are experiencing shoulder pains after performing a set of barbell rows, it is possible that you are using improper form or technique during your set. To perform a proper barbell row, bend slightly at the knees, holding a barbell with both hands evenly spaced and your palms facing the ground. Your upper torso should be at a 60-degree angle with the ground during the exercise. With your arms extended, tighten your core muscles, bending at the elbows and lifting until your upper arms are parallel with the ground. Slowly lower your arms back down, repeating until fatigued. While lifting, use your core muscles as well as your pectoral muscles, instead of leading with your neck and shoulder muscles, to avoid pain after lifting.
