keep at it, your body will get used to it. also, think about distributing your weight evenly through your fingers and toes in downward dog (and in standing positions - feet). one trick is to lift and spread the toes and the fingers and then release them, so you get a better sense of all of the surface you have to work with. you are definitely working some muscles that may not get used so much - particularly the wrists. i think with more practice, the pain should go away, but pay attention.

yoga is a really great way to develop an awareness of your body...

please keep posting yoga stuff!!! i am always happy to help!