Hi Bear,

I think each case of thyroidectomy may be unique. I've seen some people have no trouble and others have troubles as you describe. In my experience, anytime a surgery occurs there is a certain amount of issue with muscles around the area post surgery. So as you say, there may be issues with the SCM. Platysma tends to be less of a problem. Its referral pattern in the face. I'd look into scalenes as well. And there are a lot of little muscles above the hyoid bone that can cause neck and swallowing issues (ie digastric).

A good info site is: Trigger Point and Referred Pain Guide

The bibles are Simons and Travel Trigger Point books. For layperson Clair Davie's Trigger Point Therapy Workbook is great.

Does the surgeon feel everything went well with the surgery? It's always good to let the surgeon know about any issues, as they may be very familiar with why that may be occurring.