Bulging dics aren't necessarily a problem. Depends. Most of the time they're treatable by exercise (lumbar stabilization and/or anti-inflammatories) and learning not to over stress them. Occasionally a disc bulge can get so big that it squeezes the nerves and blocks the blood supply (causing leg and posterior thigh pain). So keep that in mind (ie; improving blood flow). Massage can be helpful. Ice can help reduce inflamation.
Stretching can be very helpful. Focus on improving strength and coordination of the low back and ab muscles ie; bridging, pelvic tilt, knee rolls, supermans, bird dogs, etc. Try incline on the treadmill and retro-walking on the TM (backwards) as part of the cardio routine as well.
