A local physical therapist has some tips to avoid unwanted aches and pains from raking.

Dr. Brad Gilden, a physical therapist at Elite Health Services in Greenwich, says that he often treats neck, back and shoulder injuries caused by the motion of raking leaves.

Gilden recommends taking a diagonal stance with one foot in front of the other when raking leaves.

"It's really important that you are not reaching too far, getting your back in a bad position," he says. "We want to make sure we start in a close position and always shifting your feet. You don't want to be twisted."

Gilden also recommends switching which foot is forward to avoid the overuse of the same muscles.

He says it's especially important to bend from the hips and knees when bagging the raked leaves, and to maintain a neutral spine.

"Your hips come back, as if you're going to sit in a chair," he says. "Think about sitting in a chair as you bend forward and then your legs once you grab the leaves. You're going to drive your legs into the ground to stand."

Gilden recommends keeping the bags as close to your body as possible when lifting.

Experts also suggest warming up before starting to rake and to take frequent breaks.