I find that if I can lance a blister, and then bandage it tightly so that the now loose flap of skin isn't rubbing back and forth on the raw area, then it is much more comfortable than the original blister. Proper bandaging is the key, and keeping the bandage in place. Chris Townsend's The Backpacker's Handbook has a detailed section on blister care. Maybe I will look it up when I get home and report back on his recommendations.