Parkinson's disease may be connected to H. pylori, a kind of bacteria that also causes peptic ulcers.
Researchers found that eliminating H. pylori significantly improved the physical capabilities of those suffering from the neurological condition.
Previous research had suggested a relationship between Parkinson's disease and peptic ulcers, but the nature of the connection is still unknown.
Scientists studied the link between the two by comparing the physical condition of seven Parkinson's patients who received active treatment for H. pylori against 11 patients who took a placebo.
Patients who received active treatment experienced reduced muscle rigidity in their forearms and greater improvement in walking based on stride length.
Symptoms of Parkinson's disease include tremors, muscular rigidity, slowed movement, and balance problems.