MAHONING & SHENANGO VALLEYS - The first day of school is just days away for students across the Valley and Mercy Health is reminding students of the importance of proper backpack use to prevent students from getting injured.

Backpacks are essential for students to carry their school supplies to and from school, but could cause various problems if they're too heavy or worn in the wrong positions.

According to a press release from Mercy Health, backpack straps that are too narrow or lack padding could cause tingling and numbness in students' hands and arms.

Additionally, larger backpacks could increase the risk of falls and collisions. Carrying a heavy backpack on one should could also cause muscle strain.

"When shopping for the right backpack, find one that's both comfortable and accommodating. Style should come second to finding the right fit, but if it's one your child loves, that's all the better," said Dr. Michael Cratsley.

Dr. Cratsley added that backpacks worn too loose or low could also cause unwanted pain. Cratsley recommends students tighten the straps to keep the bag close to the back so the bottom aligns with the child's natural weight.

Dr. Cratsley also recommends a backpack should be no more than 10% of a child's weight. For those with a rolling bag, the weight of those should be 20% of the child's weight.

"Even if the backpack's weight follows the recommended guidelines, watch your child's cues. If your child can't lift their backpack or put it on by themselves, that's an indicator that it is too heavy. It's also a good idea to check your child's bookbag regularly to remove any unnecessary items adding extra weight to the bag," Dr. Cratsley said.