I really don't consider myself a wise runner type yet, as I am a beginner (never having run until this year), but I did just finish my first half marathon, so perhaps the wise ones won't mind me chiming in. If you have an existing injury, I would think that technique will be important. One of the things I explored in my "beginning to run" quest was Chi Running. In addition to running, they also have walking and walk/run programs. I would love to take one of their workshops. There are a few workshops coming up in AZ in the next month. Perhaps that might be a place to start?
http://www.chirunning.com/learn-it/find-a-workshop/