Freezing your arm is a BAD thing. It was something I instinctually did afrter the RSD kicked in and before I was diagnosed. (It took hypnotherapy to break me of it.) It will just make your pain go up higher to your shoulder, and down your back. And people will be more likely to TOUCH a limb that has signs of injury. Keep your hubby on the side of your effected limb as a barrier. If someone goes to shake your hand, give them your "good" one. I shake with my left to everyone's confusion. I give one sided hugs. Your relatives will have to know sooner or later. If you can't stand to be touched, a quick "sorry, I can't, nerve pain..." works. If lidoderm patches work for you, slap on a couple and wear long sleeves. If you use pain meds, take them beforehand, so you're at a lower pain baseline when you arrive.