JDB Sports x MotionMender Bodywork | 30th March 2026

Fighting Back from Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Over the past couple of months, Jakob has been managing Osgood-Schlatter disease, a painful knee condition that puts real strain on a young athlete training at the highest level. Despite the discomfort, he has kept pushing, stayed consistent, and this weekend competed at the North East Open where he brought home a team gold medal.

But medals are only part of the story. Recovery, body maintenance and having the right support around you matter just as much as what happens on the mat. That is why today was such an important day.

Upper and lower leg area

Barbara began at the ankles and calves and then she moved up to the glutes, hamstrings and quadriceps area, these areas carrying the most load due to the knee condition. With Osgood-Schlatter causing pain and tension through the lower leg, this was a crucial starting point. Careful, targeted work here helps improve circulation, reduce tightness and ease the stress travelling up through the knee joint.

Back and Shoulders

From there, Barbara moved up through the back and shoulders. Karate demands enormous physical effort from the upper body, whether it is the tension held during kata performance, the explosive power needed in kumite, or simply the strain of hours of training. Deep tissue work across the back and shoulder muscles helps release built up tension and supports better posture and movement.

Finishing with the Neck

Barbara finished the session with focused work on the neck. For a karateka, the neck takes constant strain, whether from the intensity of sparring, the precision required in kata, or simply the mental and physical demands of competition. Releasing tension here at the end of the session left Jakob feeling lighter, more relaxed and properly looked after from the ground up.

About Barbara and MotionMender Bodywork

Barbara Mate is a qualified Sports Massage Therapist and Chiropractic Master’s student, which means she brings a genuine depth of knowledge about how the body works to every session. She is based at Appleford Village Hall, OX14 4PF and also offers mobile appointments.

We are proud to have Barbara as an official sponsor of JDB Sports and as part of Jakob’s support team going forward.

Phone: 07990 392423

Email: motionmender.uk@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motionmender

Location: Appleford Village Hall, Main Road, Appleford OX14 4PF

Introductory discounts available for new clients. Returning clients from just 45 pounds.