Anybody row?

tracydr

Just wondering if anybody does rowing for their cardio? It seems to almost be a core and upper body strengthener, in addition to cardio. Burns a lot of calories. Also seems to work the same muscles as swimming for me.
I've been dealing with deltoid tendonitis in both shoulders ( radiologist was very concerned due to the severity) and I wonder if I'm doing something wrong? I have the water rower but unfortunately we had to pack it to prepare for our move. I'm currently using the Concept 2 at the gym.
I may have to pursue surgery on both shoulders because I'm unable to use anti-inflammatory medications. ( ibuprofen and steroids).
In the meantime, is there anything I can do to modify the rowing? I really love doing it but after 20 minutes of rowing yesterday I couldn't sleep, due to shoulder pain. I've modified my swimming so that I only do breast stroke but I get a bit bored of swimming laps all the time.
I'm also very concerned about starting an upper body weight program for this very reason. Any trainers or physical therapy gurus out there that can help?