Injuries in Youth Futsal Players: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Futsal is a high-intensity intermittent sport associated with considerable injury risk, particularly in youth populations. Despite its growing global participation, the epidemiology of injuries in young players remains insufficiently synthesized.

Objective: To synthesize available evidence on injury incidence, characteristics, and contextual risk factors in youth futsal players.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Observational studies reporting epidemiological injury data in youth futsal were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Given heterogeneity in injury definitions and exposure metrics, a narrative synthesis was performed.

Results: Five studies were included. Injury incidence was consistently higher during matches than training, ranging from 208.6 to 292.42 injuries per 1,000 match hours. Lower-limb injuries predominated (70–88%), with ankle sprains as the most frequent diagnosis, while knee injuries imposed the greatest burden (>28 days of time-loss). Female players consistently presented higher injury incidence than males. Playing position and match timing were associated with elevated injury risk.

Conclusions: Youth futsal carries a high injury risk, particularly during competition. Prevention strategies should address contextual demands and prioritize standardized injury surveillance to improve comparability and support long-term athlete development.