Hi Wendy,

I really feel for you. I have had AT for nearly two years, and only now getting over it. It's a really difficult (for me) injury to recover from, as I have learnt that tendon injuries are very pesky problems to overcome. I am not sure if your disk has caused some of the issues or not, I can only offer you what helped for me:

1. Ice 3 times per day minimum for 20 minutes, and always after a run;

2. I threw out my Kayano's after I discovered I was a slight Supinator, and as such I did not need stabilty in my shoe;

3. Changed my running style based on Danny Dreyer's 'Chi Running'. I found I was working my lower legs to hard to propel myself forward. By improving my lean, it mean less stress on my calf's/achilles.

4. Eccentric load exercises, such as those found here: http://www.clinicalsportsmedicine.com/chapters/28d.htm . I do 3 sets of 60 heel drops every day, with 3 minutes rest in  between.

From what I have learnt about tendon injuries is that they need to be worked in order to heal. Just resting does nothing, and could lead to further problems. You need to work the tendon, but not overwork - just enough to aid the healing process - this is why it has been difficult for me.

But my achilles is now giving me the gift of 60 miles per week, and I thank him every day for every run!

Good luck, and be very nice to your achilles!