I don't know if you can do this with the board software, but could the position of the "New Topic" and "Post Reply" button be switched? I am so used to clicking the button farther to the left, and I always end up clicking on the "New Topic" button, then it ends up erasing my message.
I'm pretty sure there is a way, I will look into it! You can also use the quick reply thing down at the bottom of the screen.