Meningitis is an infection of the meninges or membranes. When a meningitis infection has receded it leaves scars in the membranes causing tightness and restriction. Depending on the extent of the scarring, the after-effects of meningitis can be severe. Epilepsy, mental retardation, migraines, back pain, neck pain and depression can all have their roots in the after-effects of meningitis.