Can you offer some basic guidelines for avoiding injuries associated with running?

Shoes, slow progress: Buy quality footwear from a reputable running store. Consider alternating running and walking during a session. Work on technique first, speed later. Avoid excessive amounts of hills. Warm up by running at a slower pace for the first 5-10 minutes. Increase mileage or duration 10-15% weekly. Run a maximum of 4 days/week, often on nonconsecutive days.

Slow: Ease intro running- don't push too hard at first. See someone at a specialty running store to advise you on proper shoes. Maybe talk to people you know who run, who can help with stretches, nutrition etc. If you start slow- walk, then run, then walk, then run...Your stamina and endurance will improve quickly.