Can a slip & fall cause a herniated disk?

Yes: Anything that causes an increase in vertical pressure on your back can cause a herniated disc. Commonly, sudden weight in your hands, like a heavy box suddenly sliding off the back of a truck so you're bearing its full weight. Slipping and falling into a sitting position can do it. Do not rush to have surgery. Have the nerves and the bones checked out by a doctor.

Yes: Disk that have some degeneration (wear and tear, aging) have microscopic tear, which weaken them. When a person slips and falls, the movement made to stop the fall may tear the disk more, allowing it to herniate.