Tight shoes may not be the primary cause of the hammertoes but contribute to their development. The common cause of hammertoes is foot instability, which causes some muscles to pull more than others. The toes are pulled up and buckled as a result of this.
Tight shoes do lead to undue pressure on the toes and the development of corns after a hammertoe has developed. Corns are thick skin growths that appear on pressure points, on and between the toes. Although the corn is the body’s attempt of protecting itself against excessive pressure, the pressure it creates is frequently uncomfortable. Corn cushions can help regulate pressure and prevent corn formation or relieve pain if corn has formed. However, use non-medicated pads.