Pain medication can be given through the tube, and again a special programmable pump can be used for delivery over time. This method of delivery may be particularly valuable for people who have severe pain in the legs, pelvis, or lower abdomen.

There is a lot of controversy among pain experts about what is the best time, type of equipment, and medicine to use with this method. Complications can occur with epidural administration of pain medication, including infection and having the tube slip out of place.

This method is best reserved for people who haven't found good relief through other methods.

There is additional information in Nerve Blocks.