Pressure of a hammertoe pressing against a shoe, often causing a corn to form, is the primary reason why a hammertoe causes pain. Anything that can be done to reduce the pressure from the shoe can also reduce the pain involved.

One of the most important things you can do to ensure that your shoes do not hurt your hammertoes is to choose the most appropriate shoes. Selecting a shoe that fields your foot properly, should have little or no ores sure on the toes. If pressure does remain, the use of hammertoe splints can straighten the toes and reduce the pressure. Padding is also effective to eliminate pressure on "hot spots" where corns can form.