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@maryd too much tension and poor ergodynamics can result in injury… Lots of great suggestions here already, but I will add a few to the list:
Try doing the exercises/practice with a capo on the 3rd or 4th fret. This lowers the action and makes the frets closer together, both make learning new power chords a bit easier.
To reduce the tension in your fretting hand, try playing without using your fretting thumb on the back of the guitar neck. You will be suprised to see just how little pressure is needed to fret notes cleanly, and leaving your thumb off duty will both rest the thumb and teach you to use minimal pressure to fret notes (less pressure = less tension = better playing)
Whatever you do, always listen to your body. If you are having pain, you are definately over-doing something. Rest, ice, and wrist supports are your friends. I’ve had tendonitis in my fretting hand 2-3 times now, and the urge to play through it will just result in prolonging recovery time. Best wishes!! C