Hi Deb,
I have two bulging discs and also stenosis caused by ligaments. The reason it doesn't hurt when laying down is the weight is not pressing down on the discs and the nerves get some relief. When you sit or stand, the weight is compressing them and then you get pain. The best thing to do is to strengthen your core muscles with PT and you can use an inversion table to help stretch out your lower spine. However, it takes vigilance to keep things stretched. I can't sit for very long, must take many frequent breaks. Gentle stretching helps also and there are specific things that a PT can show you to do. Hope you feel better.
Kay