Back Stretches

So I guess this is a request that we try and set a little bit of time aside each day to do some back stretches.  My back is still in pretty bad shape and I just started doing some stretches.  My range of motion with my back is actually pretty bad, especially compared to where it use to be.  I imagine it will take a while before I regain more range of motion but I figure some stretches/yoga are the best ways to recover some of this.  

If you know any good back stretch routines that would be great.

Sure - I'll clear some space to fit another person. I'm assuming nothing involving weights?

If they are light weights it would be ok but I certainly am not capable of lifting much yet.

Do you need a specific type of mattress?

No I think any mattress is fine. I have been lying down on hard floors during the day at points because it feels like a relief on my back.

I am a fellow spinal sufferer, years of martial arts and a life of poor posture from depression, I literally feel your pain. Relief is fleeting but what little help I've been able to find from stretches etc is welcome.
1. short-term "fixes" - placing hands on level surface slightly higher than hip-height, then trying to get my sternum as close to the floor as possible without bending legs.
cross arms across chest, have someone bear hug around arms from behind and lift you off the ground. Ensure someone is strong enough not to incur their own back pain.
2. routine - in bed/on floor before and after sleep, alternate hugging one knee to chest with the other extended, at least 10x each side. If you want at the end of this, touching the knee you have up to the opposite side of bed/floor while keeping shoulders square will usually give a satisfying series of pops, though I don't know if that actually helps or even hurts.
On the floor (not bed) lay on back and bring straight legs up and over head to touch feet to floor, you'll be up on your shoulders/neck. very very slowly, vertebrae by vertebrae, return to starting position.
I've also recently found using an exercise roller (term?) to be pretty helpful.
good luck, best wishes

Thanks for the advice on back pain relief. I had never experienced a back injury like this before and it was certainly eye opening. Trying to find relief has been difficult and it appears to be a long road to recovery. It is all new territory for me so any advice is very appreciated!

I discovered the 'bear hug' method through play-fighting and I have been doing it for at least a decade - and have always wondered about it. So I'm slightly stunned to see you recommend it as a real solution. Since my brother is in town for the next week I have been putting this into practice. Thanks for the the very practical tips.