Hi deewoman
i have had a prolapsed disc for the past 4 years - i think this is a 'bulging' disc that you referred to.
I had an MRI scan to identify exactly the problem and my physio gave me exercises to do to help - which they did. Mine was in the L4/L5 region, if that menas anything.
I would NEVER go to a chiropractor, but i accept that many people find them useful.
I found dancing was my saviour and my physio agreed. i am a man and my posture was good enough to benefit my back (it may be different for a lady)
In the first year, i would often be in pain driving to a dance, but once i started dancing, the pain disappeared and stayed disappeared till the next day.
Now - 4 years later i'm lucky enough to be dancing comps, playing tennis, basically doing whatever i want to - even digging the garden - except running. I used to run 20 miles a week, but now i'm restricted to one run of 3 miles per week.
My advice
1)Get the MRI scan - pay the money - NOTHING is more valuable to you than your health.
2)Keep exercising sensibly - keep your back strong - a good physio will tell you how , based on the MRI
3)wear a back support ( i don't mean a corset - i mean a wrap around gismo) if you're doing anything 'risky'
2)If it's a prolapsed disc, in my view you WILL feel like your old self if you look after yourself, so be positive.
Best of luck with it