Answer: Yes, common sense rules the day when it comes to backpacks and injuries. Certainly, carrying an overloaded backpack all day long can increase wear and tear on the back and neck, and we have treated patients who are struggling with back pain with their heavy backpacks creating a significant burden of pain. Since we have yet to be successful in convincing teens that rolling backpacks are the new, cool thing on campus, we do have a few tips to share.