My daughter is limping from this hard rough spot with black dots on her sole. She has a dance recital tomorrow and is crying in pain. Need a fast fix!

That rough spot with tiny black pinpoints on the foot is often a Plantar wart, a common skin growth caused by the Human papillomavirus (HPV). While usually harmless, it can be painful — especially for a child, where every step may feel like walking on a small pebble under the skin.

The good news is that simple care often helps. Warm foot soaks can soften the skin, cushioned pads can reduce pressure on the wart, and comfortable, supportive shoes can make walking easier while it heals.

It’s also important to avoid cutting or picking at the wart, which can cause infection or make the pain worse. If the area becomes very red, the pain increases, or the child struggles to put weight on the foot, it’s best to see a healthcare professional.

With proper care, most plantar warts improve over time — helping kids get back to running, playing, and dancing without that hidden discomfort.