What is a good stomach exercise if you have a bad back?!

What is a good stomach exercise if you have a bad back?

I have both upper and lower back injuries. If you have ever injured your back you already know you never really get over it. My problem is, I can't do sit ups. I have put on weight mostly in my stomach. I have been told it is because I no longer have stomach muscles because it pulls on my back to pull my stomach in. It is painful. Surely there is a way to tone your stomach and strengthen your back so you can hold your tummy in. Please help. I'm going to have to shop in the maternity department if this keeps up. I'm only 5' 1" and weigh 125 pounds, but to look at my stomach you would think I weigh at least 140.

I have a similar issue, with both neck and back problems. My chiropractor showed me how to do a sit up without hurting. Lay on your back on the floor and put your knees and feet up on a chair or couch. Then cross your arms so that your right hand is on your left shoulder and your left arm is on your right shoulder. Raise your head up slowly and hold it, then relax for a second or two and repeat. Be sure to hold in your stomach muscles as much as you are able while your head is raising. Maybe you are only able to do one or two the first day, but then add one each day as it starts feeling better.