Has anyone worked with someone with a bulging disk? How did you go about helping strengthen the back area without causing irrita

I would also recommend regular icing of the location post exercise as well as a high quality warm-up to limit any discomfort during the exercises explained above.

Your routine should roughly be:

-Warm-up (5-10 minutes of light cardio either on a bike or walking depending on what is most comfortable for client)
-Stretching of back and lower body muscles (piriformis, QL, ITB, hamstrings, quads, calves, and thoracic region) within comfort zone.
-Mobilization exercises (pelvic tilt, bird dog, cat and camel) progressing in difficulty as exercises become easier.
-Ice (Ice is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and it tends to cool off the muscles, which is why you wait until the end)