Anyone suffering from achilles tendonitis?

I do not know the cause of my injury, but I have had achilles tendonitis for 1 1/2 years. I've tried Alleve, Motrin, and most recently a Medrol pack. I wear a short splint on the ankle at night, heel lifts, and was just given a warrior boot to wear when walking. I went to physical therapy for 3 months, I do stretches, had Ionto therapy, ultrasound therapy, and manual therapy. I hurt like a bugger and have a hard time walking , esp. after sitting or sleeping, until things loosen up.
What kinds of things have you found to provide relief, and how long did your symptoms last? I heard this could take as many as 5 years to heal from my doctor, and surgery is not a good option, nor are cortisone shots, as they'll only weaken the already weakened tendon.
Serious answers only please. Thanks

I had it when I was younger and yes - it does hurt like hell. I was diagnosed when I was 7 and was in a lot of pain when I tried to run around with the other kids. None of the physio excersises helped and it just went away by itself about 3 years later. I still get occasional flare ups but nowhere near as bad as before. So don't worry - it'll probably get better or disappear entirely as you get older!

Right now, Im sore all over !! Im getting old !!

i'm suffering

I sympathize with you. It is very painful. I've had it for 13 years due to 6 foot surgery's. All the doctors say there is nothing they can do for me so live with it. I do use a "TENS' unit & it helps to temporally ease the pain but does not cure. Good luck to you.It "IS NOT "a laughing matter.