Maybe some answers or at least some reassurance for you. I had modified neck dissection on just one side, and five years later, I still get a tightnesss, most frequently when I am tired after a long, active day. I have become so used to it that it no longer bothers me, although I can remember when I was just out of treatment and it did feel like a noose. I suspect there is still some swelling that is making your husband feel worse than he will eventually.

I was sent to see a physical therapist after my ND, and although I turned out not to need more than a few exercises done with a very large rubber band, I think that might be exactly what your husband needs to help with his pain. I would suggest that you run this by his doc for a referral. It might help a lot!