Upright row is a common strengthening exercise significantly targets arms and shoulder muscles that stabilize and support your shoulder. Being a compound exercise, upright row exercise also works on several more muscles of upper body and back joints. Dumbbells take the workout to an upper level and increase the intensity, challenge and benefits of the exercise. It develops and strengthens many shoulder and upper arms muscles. It is recommendable to consult your doctor before starting any new workout if you have any back or muscle pain history to avoid more damage or discomfort of muscles.