Hi Susie, I had the same operation and had a lot of muscle problems the same as you are describing. Very gentle massage daily helps quite a bit. Also physical therapy usually helps. The good news is that over time it gets better.

Take care

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.