One of the most common reasons people suffer from muscle or joint pain during or after raking is because they are using the wrong type of rake. With so many models to choose from, it can be difficult to know which rake is best for you. Neil Dylla, master gardener at Northwestern Health Sciences University, offers the advantages and disadvantages of the three most common types of rakes:

Steel/Wire Rakes: Although they may be a bit heavier than plastic or bamboo rakes, steel rakes work very well and are very durable. They can cover a lot of area and are great for thatch removal. A bonus: You don’t have to apply a lot of pressure to get the job done (which can help relieve your back).
Plastic Rakes: Plastic rakes are lightweight, easy to handle and fairly durable, but can be one of the hardest rakes to use because you have to press down fairly hard in order to pick up leaves. These rakes are not a good choice for removing thatch.
Bamboo Rakes: These rakes work very well, but wear out easily. They are also one of the most expensive rakes you can buy. So if money is an issue, you may not want to choose these rakes as they are not very durable.
Modifications: You can modify your own rakes to make them easier to use. Dylla recommends removing three to four tines from each side of a steel rake, then bending the excess material underneath the bottom side of the rake. The narrow design takes less downard pressure to use and fits easily into small spaces!
Modified rake versus original form

When looking at rakes, test them out. Be sure that the length of the handle fits your height. You should be able to stand up tall while raking. If you have to bend over to reach the handle, it isn’t long enough. Having a rake that’s the right size for you is a good way to prevent unnecessary back pain.

There are also many ergonomic rakes on the market. These rakes have specially-shaped handles that make it easier to use while putting less strain on the back. Those with carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis can greatly benefit from ergonomic garden tools.

Dylla recommends waiting until a majority of the leaves have fallen and completing one big rake job instead of multiple smaller ones. For large yards (or yards with a lot of leaves), you can rent a power rake that looks similar to a lawn mower. Power rakes remove thatch from underneath the leaves, making raking easier in the long run.