You'll dig these gardening pointers

It's the time of year to get down to gardening. Unfortunately, getting back up can be a problem.

Too much bending, stooping and lifting in the garden can cause achy knees and balky backs to flare up. Pain medicine specialist Dr. Paul Christo, a Baltimore-based radio host, author and the former director of the Blaustein Pain Treatment Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital, has these tips for older gardeners:

Before you dig in, do some stretching exercises to loosen up your muscles.

Use tools with long handles to help prevent stooping and bending.

Taking frequent breaks, even if you feel fine, may help keep the pain from starting. And change positions often while working.

Arthritis sufferers can get temporary relief by using over-the-counter topical pain solutions and ointments.