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Personal Trainer, SFMA Physical Therapy & Massage in St. Louis

Press On To Your Best Health

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Trigger Point Massage Therapy

A trigger point is a tight area within muscle tissue that can produce localized pain, as well as referral pain to other areas of the body. For example, neck pain and headaches can be caused by a trigger point in the back. The pain may be described as “sharp and intense” or a “dull ache”.

Trigger points are caused by a variety of factors such as muscular injuries, strains, trauma, structural imbalances, improper body mechanics and movement patterns, poor nutrition, and mental and emotional stress.

trigger point therapy

Trigger point massage therapy is designed to reduce and relieve the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. Rachel performs trigger point release by using a combination of pressure originating from her thumbs and elbows. The client participates through deep breathing as well as verbally identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.

Trigger points reduce range of motion in both joints and muscles by preventing muscles from relaxing. This causes muscles to become shortened and stiff, and causes muscles to recover slowly from exertion. Trigger points can also lead to muscle imbalances, causing disarticulation of joints, which causes the joints to “catch” or “pop” when exercising or being active.

Trying to stretch muscles that have trigger points only causes pain and discomfort. Things change dramatically by first releasing the trigger points and then stretching the muscles. Studies show that by performing trigger point release, muscle tissue becomes more pliable, leading to improved joint mobility and muscle length. Rachel combines trigger point release sessions with manual stretching techniques so that clients can regain their mobility in the most efficient time frame.

Clients can experience a significant decrease in pain after just one treatment depending on the severity of the trigger points. Rachel encourages clients to utilize trigger point sessions on a weekly basis in combination with strength training in order to maximize progress in the gym while preventing risk of injury.

Trigger point massage has the following benefits:

  • It improves muscle length, flexibility, and range of motion.
  • It is an effective injury prevention technique pre-workout by warming up the muscle tissue and improving muscle flexibility and joint mobility.
  • It is an effective injury prevention technique pre-workout by warming up the muscle tissue and improving muscle flexibility and joint mobility.
  • It reduces muscle soreness post workout because trigger point release helps to remove metabolic waste products from the muscle as well as improve blood circulation.
  • It helps to decrease pain and may help to rule out certain diagnoses. Trigger points can mimic various conditions like bursitis, tendinitis, even migraines and heart attack.
  • It improves the frequency and intensity of headaches.
  • It improves posture.
  • It increases blood flow and tissue hydration. Trigger points can block oxygen and nutrients from entering the muscle cells. Removing trigger points allows the muscle cells access to all the nutrition that they need to function at their optimal levels.
  • It has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Press On Towards Your Best Health

For High Level Strength Training, Physical Therapy, Trigger Point Therapy, SFMA, Weight Loss & More in a Pet Friendly Environment Choose Press on Performance!

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Anne Tolan

Working with Rachel has not only been fun but she's taught me so much about form and fitness. Rachel is highly trained, knowledgeable and so positive and encouraging. Highly recommend
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-05-14T09:20:31-06:00
Working with Rachel has not only been fun but she's taught me so much about form and fitness. Rachel is highly trained, knowledgeable and so positive and encouraging. Highly recommend
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/highly-trained-knowledgeable-positive/

Angela Balota

Training with Rachel has been an absolute joy! I cannot recommend her highly enough. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable, but she is SO MUCH FUN!!! I not only lost weight while seeing Rach, but I felt strengthened and energized and all-around better. I had to take a break from working out while I had a baby, but cannot wait to get back into see her and lose some of this baby weight!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:22:15-06:00
Training with Rachel has been an absolute joy! I cannot recommend her highly enough. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable, but she is SO MUCH FUN!!! I not only lost weight while seeing Rach, but I felt strengthened and energized and all-around better. I had to take a break from working out while I had a baby, but cannot wait to get back into see her and lose some of this baby weight!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/angela-balota/

Natalie Hoffmann

Rachel is not your typical personal trainer! She has a physical therapy background so she is able to identify your shortcomings or injuries and help you address them. I have 3 tears in my shoulder and since working with Rachel, I am back to playing tennis and getting stronger every day. She is so knowledgeable, and I recommend her so highly that my 2 sons are also her clients!!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:25:24-06:00
Rachel is not your typical personal trainer! She has a physical therapy background so she is able to identify your shortcomings or injuries and help you address them. I have 3 tears in my shoulder and since working with Rachel, I am back to playing tennis and getting stronger every day. She is so knowledgeable, and I recommend her so highly that my 2 sons are also her clients!!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/natalie-hoffmann/

Tonya Crawford


Meeting Rachel just a year ago not knowing she would be the best therapist I could ask for in just 6 months later. I had started experiencing discomfort from probably a minor rotator cuff tear. She was very thorough in explaining what should and could help. She has been able to help me eliminate doctor visits and possible surgery. I highly recommend Rachel!!! šŸ‘ŠšŸ¼

Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:25:52-06:00
Meeting Rachel just a year ago not knowing she would be the best therapist I could ask for in just 6 months later. I had started experiencing discomfort from probably a minor rotator cuff tear. She was very thorough in explaining what should and could help. She has been able to help me eliminate doctor visits and possible surgery. I highly recommend Rachel!!! šŸ‘ŠšŸ¼
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/tonya-crawford/

Suzanne Gusdorf

I met Rachel 5 years ago. In an instant, I knew I wanted to train with her. Rachel possesses the ability to put one at ease and trust in her ability to help each and every person to the best of her ability while at the same time with the expectation that each person give their best. Nine months ago, I contacted Rachel to help me with menisci tears and recovery. We worked together for two months prior to surgery to help strengthen the area around my knee. Through her PTA certification and training as well as her Personal Training experience, she has helped me rehabilitate my knee far beyond what I thought was possible. I will never run a marathon, but now I can continue to become healthy while being able to maintain my love of gardening, strength training, enjoying my family and working. I am grateful to her and continue to take on responsibility for my recovery while having her to push me when necessary. THANKS RACHEL!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:26:29-06:00
I met Rachel 5 years ago. In an instant, I knew I wanted to train with her. Rachel possesses the ability to put one at ease and trust in her ability to help each and every person to the best of her ability while at the same time with the expectation that each person give their best. Nine months ago, I contacted Rachel to help me with menisci tears and recovery. We worked together for two months prior to surgery to help strengthen the area around my knee. Through her PTA certification and training as well as her Personal Training experience, she has helped me rehabilitate my knee far beyond what I thought was possible. I will never run a marathon, but now I can continue to become healthy while being able to maintain my love of gardening, strength training, enjoying my family and working. I am grateful to her and continue to take on responsibility for my recovery while having her to push me when necessary. THANKS RACHEL!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/suzanne-gusdorf/

Nicole Christ

Rachel is a knowledgeable trainer (PTA background), with a passion for helping others achieve their goals. She will conduct a thorough analysis to define where your strengths and weaknesses are to ensure the program is designed to promote your health, and avoid injuries. She is a pleasure to work with, and stands out above the rest!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:27:34-06:00
Rachel is a knowledgeable trainer (PTA background), with a passion for helping others achieve their goals. She will conduct a thorough analysis to define where your strengths and weaknesses are to ensure the program is designed to promote your health, and avoid injuries. She is a pleasure to work with, and stands out above the rest!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/nicole-christ/

Helena FitzWilliam-O’Reilly

Rachel Berger truly loves her work. Her positivity and enthusiasm are genuine. She is extremely knowledgeable, supportive and encouraging and respectful. Rachel’s greatest joy is in nurturing and supporting each one of her clients along their individual health journey.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:27:57-06:00
Rachel Berger truly loves her work. Her positivity and enthusiasm are genuine. She is extremely knowledgeable, supportive and encouraging and respectful. Rachel’s greatest joy is in nurturing and supporting each one of her clients along their individual health journey.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/helena-fitzwilliam-oreilly/

Maureen Oehler

I have been training weekly with Rachel for almost 3 years. After just a few sessions I could feel the difference both physically and mentally. The workouts are fun, yet challenging and tailored to fit my goals. Training with Rachel has been the best investment in "me" I could make!!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:28:29-06:00
I have been training weekly with Rachel for almost 3 years. After just a few sessions I could feel the difference both physically and mentally. The workouts are fun, yet challenging and tailored to fit my goals. Training with Rachel has been the best investment in "me" I could make!!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/maureen-oehler/

Kaily Frensko

Rachel is great. She truly cares about everyone. She always has your best interest in mind. She wants to see you improve yourself and reach every goal you have. I wouldn't work with anyone else.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:28:58-06:00
Rachel is great. She truly cares about everyone. She always has your best interest in mind. She wants to see you improve yourself and reach every goal you have. I wouldn't work with anyone else.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/faily-frensko/

Stephanie Lolmaugh

Rachel is such an amazing, positive trainer and therapist. She has a ton of knowledge and such passion for her work. She truly cares about the health and well-being of her clients. A complete joy to be around, an I cant recommend her enough!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:29:19-06:00
Rachel is such an amazing, positive trainer and therapist. She has a ton of knowledge and such passion for her work. She truly cares about the health and well-being of her clients. A complete joy to be around, an I cant recommend her enough!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/stephanie-lolmaugh/

Ken Jones

After ankle surgery and prescribed PT at different locations, I was still limping, weak, and out of balance. Then I signed up for personal training with Rachel and she changed my life. Rachel focused on not just my ankle, but on my overall strength, flexibility, stamina, conditioning, muscle symmetry, and functional stability. Her knowledge and understanding of how joints and muscles can be coaxed to improvement is impressive, and her care, concern, and dedication to my overall physical well being is inspiring. I'm in my third year with Rachel, and I would recommend her to anyone serious about taking control of their health.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:29:42-06:00
After ankle surgery and prescribed PT at different locations, I was still limping, weak, and out of balance. Then I signed up for personal training with Rachel and she changed my life. Rachel focused on not just my ankle, but on my overall strength, flexibility, stamina, conditioning, muscle symmetry, and functional stability. Her knowledge and understanding of how joints and muscles can be coaxed to improvement is impressive, and her care, concern, and dedication to my overall physical well being is inspiring. I'm in my third year with Rachel, and I would recommend her to anyone serious about taking control of their health.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/ken-jones/

Jane Allen Jones

Rachel has been my trainer for almost 3 years. As a result, I am stronger and more fit than I’ve been in years. Things that make her special: her physical therapy background and knowledge, her commitment to her clients, her caring attitude, and her sense of humor. Rachel makes working hard fun. Highly recommend!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:30:04-06:00
Rachel has been my trainer for almost 3 years. As a result, I am stronger and more fit than I’ve been in years. Things that make her special: her physical therapy background and knowledge, her commitment to her clients, her caring attitude, and her sense of humor. Rachel makes working hard fun. Highly recommend!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/jane-allen-jones/

Andrew Magdy

Working with Rachel has been amazing. I went to her when I was having serious back pain and she was able to come up with a program that quickly alleviated the pain. I’ve continued to see her and am always happy with the results. She’s a great person and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:30:32-06:00
Working with Rachel has been amazing. I went to her when I was having serious back pain and she was able to come up with a program that quickly alleviated the pain. I’ve continued to see her and am always happy with the results. She’s a great person and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/andrew-magdy/

Chelsey Ament

Working with Rachel has been very eye-opening. She is so positive and encouraging. Extremely knowledgable, professional and highly trained. She is constantly learning to help better her clients. Rachel makes working out fun! Highly recommend!!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:31:18-06:00
Working with Rachel has been very eye-opening. She is so positive and encouraging. Extremely knowledgable, professional and highly trained. She is constantly learning to help better her clients. Rachel makes working out fun! Highly recommend!!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/chelsey-ament/

Joe Tolan

Rachel helped me develop all aspects of my training program: balance, core development, strength, and posture. She worked with me at my level of fitness and focused on the areas that needed the most help. Her strategies have given me confidence in my own ability to get fit and stay strong.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-10-14T09:31:52-06:00
Rachel helped me develop all aspects of my training program: balance, core development, strength, and posture. She worked with me at my level of fitness and focused on the areas that needed the most help. Her strategies have given me confidence in my own ability to get fit and stay strong.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/joe-tolan/

Dick Ulett

So far I have avoided two shoulder replacements and a knee replacement! I was one of Rachel’s first clients. And for sure, she knows what she’s doing. I am so much stronger, and can actually feel the difference my exercise routine makes. Rachel is great to work with. She makes sure I understand what I’m doing and has been patient with me as I progressed. As you might guess, I recommend her highly!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:32:23-06:00
So far I have avoided two shoulder replacements and a knee replacement! I was one of Rachel’s first clients. And for sure, she knows what she’s doing. I am so much stronger, and can actually feel the difference my exercise routine makes. Rachel is great to work with. She makes sure I understand what I’m doing and has been patient with me as I progressed. As you might guess, I recommend her highly!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/dick-ulett/

Janet Duchek

Rachel is a ā€˜personal’ trainer in the true sense of the term. Utilizing her physical therapy background and impressive knowledge of human anatomy, she designs an individualized training program for each client. Unlike the ā€˜cookie-cutter’ approach you tend to find in the large commercial gyms, Rachel works with her clients to identify, achieve, (and even surpass!) their personal training goals. She takes a holistic approach, emphasizing strengthening, conditioning, injury prevention, nutrition, and general well-being. But most important, Rachel truly cares about her clients and is the best motivator I have ever met. I have been working with Rachel for nearly 2 years and have never felt better! Being a personal trainer is not just a ā€˜job’ for her, it is her calling to help people be their best and healthiest selves.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-09-14T09:32:54-06:00
Rachel is a ā€˜personal’ trainer in the true sense of the term. Utilizing her physical therapy background and impressive knowledge of human anatomy, she designs an individualized training program for each client. Unlike the ā€˜cookie-cutter’ approach you tend to find in the large commercial gyms, Rachel works with her clients to identify, achieve, (and even surpass!) their personal training goals. She takes a holistic approach, emphasizing strengthening, conditioning, injury prevention, nutrition, and general well-being. But most important, Rachel truly cares about her clients and is the best motivator I have ever met. I have been working with Rachel for nearly 2 years and have never felt better! Being a personal trainer is not just a ā€˜job’ for her, it is her calling to help people be their best and healthiest selves.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/janet-duchek/

James Hoffmann

Rachel Berger is awesome. Very knowledgeable and attentive. I had neck and trap issues for years until Rachel figured it all out. God, thank you for Rachel!!
Press On Performance and Training
5
2020-02-07T09:33:22-06:00
Rachel Berger is awesome. Very knowledgeable and attentive. I had neck and trap issues for years until Rachel figured it all out. God, thank you for Rachel!!
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/james-hoffmann/

Chris Marshall

Any trainer can tell you to lift 10 more pounds or do five more push-ups. What sets Rachel apart is her extensive training in physical therapy, and her deep understanding of the body and how correct form affects our movements and everything we do. Rachel tailors your work out to your specific condition and conditioning to make sure you get the best possible workout in a safe and effective way.
Press On Performance and Training
5
2019-12-14T09:33:48-06:00
Any trainer can tell you to lift 10 more pounds or do five more push-ups. What sets Rachel apart is her extensive training in physical therapy, and her deep understanding of the body and how correct form affects our movements and everything we do. Rachel tailors your work out to your specific condition and conditioning to make sure you get the best possible workout in a safe and effective way.
https://pressonperformance.net/testimonials/chris-marshall/
5
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Press On Performance and Training

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Contact a Personal Trainer

Rachel Berger
7403 Manchester Rd Suite #124,
Maplewood, MO 63143
(314)282-7160

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