This week's "What's Ailing You" looks at bulging discs.

A local doctor likens the discs in your back to a jelly doughnut. He says there's a problem if the material in the middle leaks.

"The material will create irritation to the surrounding nerves, and secondarily through inflammation will also cause pain," says Dr. Jay Kleeman, of Darien-based Coastal Orthopedics.

On the bright side, Kleeman says a bulging disc can sometimes resolve itself. Treatments for the ailment include exercise and physical therapy, as well as anti-inflammatories, pain medication, steroids and muscle relaxants.