Author(s): SZABÓ, D., KISS, G., TEKUS, E., FEKETE, J.D., VERMES, CS., MINTAL, T., Institution: PÉCS UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SCHOOL , Country: HUNGARY, Abstract-ID: 557

INTRODUCTION:
The incidence of injuries among junior football players is remarkably high. Adolescents may be particularly vulnerable due to the rapid physical changes that occur during growth spurts. Poor posture might be linked to an increased risk of injuries in this population.
This study aimed to examine the connection between poor posture and injury patterns in youth football players.

METHODS:
A total of 116 football players (aged 11–18 years) participated in the study. Participants were categorized based on age and academic level. Data on training and injuries were collected through questionnaires and injury registration software. Habitual posture was assessed using the PostureScreen mobile application. During statistical analysis descriptive statistic, independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc test and Kruskal-Wallis H test was performed. Chi-squared test was applied to assess relationship between postural parameters and injury occurrence
RESULTS:
Injury rates were high across the entire study group, with the highest rates observed in the U14 and U15 age categories. Significant positive correlations emerged between various postural parameters and injury occurence (p≤ 0,05) while academic groupings showed less pronounced associations. . For the full study sample, the most important observation is that "total" frontal value in posture and the pelvic translation can be considered as risk factors for re-injury.
CONCLUSION:
The findings indicate a clear association between postural parameters, as measured in both the frontal and sagittal planes, and the occurrence of injuries among youth football players. Our findings highlight the role of using posture screening methods as the part of the injury prevention program among youth football players.