A Community-Based Study on Knowledge of Orthopaedic Emergencies Among Adults in Himachal Pradesh

Background: Orthopaedic emergencies such as fractures, dislocations, and spinal injuries require immediate recognition and response to prevent long-term disability or death. In geographically challenging regions like Himachal Pradesh, delays in trauma care are exacerbated by difficult terrain, limited healthcare access, and inadequate public awareness. This study aimed to assess the awareness and understanding of orthopaedic emergencies among adults in Himachal Pradesh and to examine the influence of socio-demographic factors on knowledge levels. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults across urban and rural districts of Himachal Pradesh. Participants were selected through purposive and convenience sampling, excluding individuals with formal medical training. A bilingual (Hindi/English), structured Google Form questionnaire assessed socio-demographics, knowledge of orthopaedic emergencies (20 MCQs), and personal experiences with trauma situations. Each correct answer scored one point, with total knowledge scores classified as Very Good (17–20), Good (13–16), Fair (9–12), and Poor (0–8). Data were analyzed using Epi Info Version 7. Chi-square tests assessed associations between awareness levels and demographic variables (p<0.05). Results: Overall, 29.8% of participants demonstrated Very Good awareness, 35.3% Good, 23.3% Fair, and 11.8% Poor. High awareness was seen for identifying emergencies like open fractures (72.8%), spinal injuries (70.8%), and immobilization protocols (72.0%). However, knowledge gaps were observed in bleeding control (61.5%) and safe transport practices (67.5%). Education level (p<0.001), age group (p = 0.028), occupation (p = 0.036), and residence (p = 0.043) were significantly associated with knowledge levels, while gender showed no significant association (p = 0.211). Urban, educated, and professionally employed participants scored higher than rural, less-educated individuals. Conclusion: The adult population in Himachal Pradesh exhibits moderate awareness of orthopaedic emergencies, but critical gaps remain—particularly among older, rural, and less-educated groups. Strengthening community knowledge through targeted, culturally relevant public health campaigns and first aid training is essential. Empowering non-medical individuals with basic orthopaedic emergency skills can significantly improve outcomes in regions with limited immediate trauma care access.