srjcmsSRJCMSSRJCMS2788-8851https://doi.org/10.47310/srjcms.2025.v05i02.001Understanding of Fracture First Aid and Bone Injury Management Among the General Population in Himachal PradeshVivekPiyushKumar GuptaSunilKumarMedical Officer (Orthopaedics), CHC Syri, Distt Solan, Himachal Pradesh, IndiaMedical officer (Orthopaedics), Civil Hospital , Sujanpur Tihra, Distt Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, IndiaMedical Officer, CH Banjaar, Distt Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, IndiaBackground: Fractures and bone injuries are common emergencies, especially in hilly terrains like Himachal Pradesh where difficult terrain, falls, and road accidents are prevalent. However, public understanding of proper fracture first aid remains poorly documented, and traditional, often harmful practices persist. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to fracture first aid and bone injury management among the general population of Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 400 adults (≥18 years) across urban and rural districts of Himachal Pradesh. Using a structured, self-administered Google Form available in English and Hindi, data were collected on socio-demographics and KAP related to bone injuries and fracture first aid. Healthcare professionals and allied health students were excluded to avoid bias. Knowledge scores (max 20) were categorized as Very Good (17–20), Good (13–16), Fair (9–12), and Poor (0–8). Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p < 0.05) were applied using Epi Info 7 to assess associations with socio-demographic factors. Results: Among 400 participants, 64.8% demonstrated Good (36.0%) or Very Good (28.8%) knowledge of fracture first aid. High awareness was observed in areas like immobilization (70.5%), use of slings/splints (72.0%), cold compress (68.5%), and the importance of timely medical attention (72.8%). However, significant misconceptions remained, particularly regarding the dangers of tight bandaging (63.3%), offering food/water before evaluation (61.3%), and use of traditional massages (66.5%). Education level (p < 0.001), age group (p = 0.022), and rural-urban residence (p = 0.031) showed significant associations with knowledge scores, while gender did not (p = 0.215). Participants aged 26–35 and those with undergraduate or postgraduate education had the highest awareness. Conclusion: While the general population in Himachal Pradesh demonstrates encouraging awareness of basic fracture first aid, dangerous misconceptions and improper practices persist—particularly among older adults, the less educated, and rural residents. Culturally tailored first aid education campaigns, community training programs, and integration of musculoskeletal emergency preparedness into rural healthcare delivery systems are urgently needed to bridge these gaps and reduce fracture-related complications.