1509 Monitoring oxidative metabolic states may provide information on the mechanism behind computer use related musculoskeletal disorders. PURPOSE: To compare tissue oxygen saturation (Sat-O2) profiles in the forearm extensor carpi radialis (ECR) during computer mouse use with and without time pressure and precision demands. METHODS: Twenty-four healthy, right-handed subjects (12 females, 12 males; age 19–28 years) participated in the study. Subjects performed a 45-min mouse operated computer task on two occasions, separated by 3–5 days. The task consisted of painting squares that were presented on the screen. On one occasion, time pressure and precision demands were imposed by limiting the time available for painting a square and introducing a scoring system based on precision of painting (STRESS). On the other occasion, no such restraints were added (NON-STRESS). The order of the two task versions was randomized. During the task, Sat-O2 in the right ECR muscle was measured by near-infrared spectroscopy – NIRS (Inspectra, Hutchinson Technology). In addition, subjective ratings of tenseness and strain, and painting performance measures were recorded. RESULTS: A repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant decline in Sat-O2 during the STRESS condition (p < 0.05), but no change for the NON-STRESS condition. A gender difference was apparent as females exhibited an overall lower Sat-O2 than males (p < 0.05); however, no interaction was found. Subjects' ratings of tenseness and strain were significantly higher during the STRESS as compared to the NON-STRESS condition (p < 0.001). These data were paralleled by work pace (i.e. squares painted during STRESS = 119; NON-STRESS = 84, p < 0.001). Furthermore, accuracy of painting was greater for the STRESS as compared to the NON-STRESS condition (p < 0.01), i.e., number of times outside the square, STRESS = 2, NON-STRESS = 4. No gender differences in subjective ratings or performance variables were detected. CONCLUSIONS: Our finding of a change in local metabolic states under stressful conditions may shed light on the mechanism behind computer mouse related forearm muscular disorders. Furthermore, that females demonstrate a lower ECR Sat-O2 could give precedence to their higher incidence of disorders than males. Supported in part by the Swedish Council for Work Life Research, and technically by Kerstin Nilsson and Majken Rahm.