At first I thought maybe some derealization, but the closest thing I can imagine is that it must be similar to or related to Restless Leg Syndrome.
It's just an idea, but I would guess that both of these must have some basis in being a nervous reaction. I felt a bit like this when I broke my jaw many years ago, and that was how it was explained to me, as a central nervous system reaction to the injury. Nerves may be a bit overloaded with stress chemicals? Nerves are "restless" after an injury?

It would help to know if he has these feelings in his body, a pulling sensation, or if it's in his mind. Not at all to say it's "all in his mind", but to differentiate if it's a physical or a psychological reaction to being overtired and overstressed. Maybe he just feels this sensation in his head and not other parts of his body. Is it his body or his brain that feels this "lunge"? Either way, I think it's likely something to do with nerves. Hopefully this strange symptom will go away as he recovers from the TBI and nerves heal.

It's just a thought... but here's a link that might help. See if hubby can relate.

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders...topic-overview