Key points in RSI prevention are allowing your muscles frequent breaks during repetitive activity, trying not to place prolonged or excessive strain on particular muscles, and listening to your body when it begins to feel discomfort. Also, good typing habits deter the onset of RSI if followed. Harvard RSI Action lists many more details about preventing RSI on their web page. Recovery is slow because RSI results in damage to soft tissue that takes time to heal. Wearing a brace or splint can help prevent unnecessary movement of the recovering tissues and help them regenerate.
Drugs can reduce inflammation and pain.
Most forms of RSI cannot be treated by surgery, but surgery can ease some problems, such as CTS and deQuervain's disease, and is sometimes even necessary. Also, fundamentals such as a good diet and exercise will strengthen your body and muscles and reduce chance of injury. A wide variety of computer software and other equipment have become available as the prevalence of RSI increases. Voice-recognition software products allow one to direct a computer without typing. However, these items are more expensive than non-ergonomic versions, and their effectiveness is unknown.